Rwanda Approves Sudanese Clubs for 2025/26 Season Amid Ongoing Civil War

Three of Sudan's top football clubs—Al Hilal SC, Al Merrikh SC, and Al Ahli Wad Madani—have been approved by the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) to participate in the 2025-2026 Rwanda Premier League due to the suspension of Sudan's domestic league amid ongoing civil conflict since April 2023. This unprecedented arrangement, pending final approval from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), aims to keep the Sudanese clubs active and sustain their football structures while their home country remains unstable. Previously, Al Hilal and Al Merrikh temporarily competed in Mauritania's league, but sought relocation closer to home with Rwanda emerging as a stable base. Despite the turmoil, Sudanese clubs like Al Hilal have maintained strong continental performances, including reaching the CAF Champions League quarter-finals and qualifying for the African Champions League group phase. The move also reflects FERWAFA's commitment to regional integration and the global growth of football through international collaboration. Meanwhile, the Sudanese national team continues to compete internationally, even as their domestic infrastructure remains compromised.