Innocent Makuwira

The Southern Region Football Association (SRFA) has confirmed that fixtures under the Thumbs Up Premier Division League will not proceed as originally scheduled today 10th January 2026, a decision that has left participating clubs grappling with mounting financial and operational strain.

On 7th January, clubs received official notification of the postponement.

In response, management from one of the affected teams wrote to SRFA outlining the heavy toll of repeated delays.

The communication stressed that clubs continue to incur costs for training sessions, accommodation, meals, and logistics, despite matches not being played. For many, these expenses are unsustainable without the revenue and momentum that competitive fixtures bring.

The situation is worsened by the fact that some clubs will now go an entire month without playing a match since December, further compounding financial pressures and stretching already limited resources.

SRFA acknowledged the concerns raised but explained that the postponement was necessary to honor contractual obligations with the league sponsor.

The sponsor’s presence is required for the official handing over of medals and the trophy, meaning the fixture has been rescheduled to 17th January 2026.

While the Association emphasized its commitment to the integrity of the competition, clubs remain frustrated.

The extended preparation period not only drains finances but also disrupts player focus and morale. For smaller teams with limited resources, the burden is particularly severe, raising questions about sustainability in the long run.

The postponement underscores the delicate balance between sponsorship obligations and the day-to-day realities of running football clubs.