The FUFA Appeals Committee has upheld the FUFA Disciplinary Panel's decision regarding KCCA FC's fielding of an ineligible player in their Uganda Premier League match against Mbarara City FC on January 7, 2025.
In a ruling released on February 6, 2025, the Appeals Committee dismissed KCCA FC's appeal, affirming that the Disciplinary Panel had made the correct decision in awarding Mbarara City FC a victory by forfeiture. The ruling reinforces FUFA’s commitment to ensuring fairness and integrity in Ugandan football competitions.
The Appeals Committee, after thoroughly reviewing the case, concluded that KCCA FC indeed fielded an ineligible player during their match against Mbarara City FC. According to FUFA regulations, clubs bear the full responsibility of ensuring that only eligible players participate in matches.
“The responsibility of fielding eligible players rests entirely with the club,” the Committee stated. “Maintaining high reliability and integrity in football competitions is of critical importance, and this decision upholds that principle.”
With the Appeals Committee ruling in favor of the Disciplinary Panel's decision, KCCA FC officially loses the match by forfeiture, handing Mbarara City FC a 3-0 victory as per FUFA regulations. Additionally, this decision serves as a stern warning to other clubs to adhere to player eligibility rules to avoid similar sanctions.
The ruling also reinforces FUFA's firm stance on upholding competition integrity, ensuring that all teams comply with the federation’s regulations.
The controversy arose after KCCA FC fielded a player deemed ineligible for the match against Mbarara City FC on January 7, 2025. Following investigations, the FUFA Disciplinary Panel ruled against KCCA FC, leading the club to appeal the decision. However, the Appeals Committee has now upheld the original verdict, closing the case.
With this ruling, KCCA FC will have to shift focus to upcoming fixtures while taking lessons from this administrative oversight. The decision also highlights FUFA’s continued commitment to fair play and adherence to competition rules in Ugandan football.
As the Uganda Premier League progresses, clubs are expected to be more vigilant in compliance with FUFA regulations. This case sets a strong precedent for football governance in the country, reinforcing the importance of adhering to eligibility rules to maintain fairness in the competition.
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