FNB Premiership commences despite stadia challenges
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Tuesday August 12, 2025 15:37
Currently, three stadia are unavailable for use. CEO of the Botswana Football League (BFL), Bennett Mamelodi, said when they finalised the schedule for this season, they encountered some challenges.
He told a media briefing yesterday that the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) informed them that the National Stadium is unavailable until the end of September this year.
Mamelodi further said they have also been told that Sowa Town Council Stadium will not be available until the end of this month.
To make matters worse, the Francistown Council Stadium is also out of use until the third week of September.
The league however has been boosted by GU stadium, which hosts several matches this season.
“Allow me to acknowledge, with immense gratitude, the contribution made to our schedule by GU Stadium,” he said.
“At the time when we experienced venue challenges, particularly in the south, the management of the venue availed their modern facility and we thank them.”
The GU Stadium will this Friday host the opening league match between Mochudi Centre Chiefs and BDF XI, which is scheduled to kick-off at 6pm.
This season is scheduled to conclude on May 30, 2026, with the BFL awards ceremony set to take place the following day.
Mamelodi said the rationale behind the schedule was informed by FIFA weeks and affording Zebras time to prepare and fulfill travel logistics.
It was also informed by Inter-club participation by Gaborone United (GU) and Jwaneng Galaxy.
GU as the current national champions will be taking part in the CAF Champions League while Galaxy will represent the country in the CAF Confederations Cup.
“We wish to assure our sponsor, First National Bank, that the BFL staff shall wake up every day to work on the delivery of a superior product, the FNB Premiership. Last season set a benchmark, which has to be matched if not surpassed,” Mamelodi said.
On other issues, he revealed that engagements are underway to finalise the marketing of broadcast rights with the Department of Broadcasting Services.
Mamelodi also said that the BFL board has approved the BFL Betting Policy, which was subject to consultations with the clubs.