The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has officially written to the Premier Soccer League (PSL) proposing a major structural reform that would see the league expanded from 18 to 20 teams starting from the 2026 season. The bold proposal, if adopted, would mark the first major overhaul of Zimbabwe’s top-flight football competition since its reformation in 2010.
In a formal letter addressed to PSL Chief Executive Officer Rodwell Thabe, ZIFA Secretary-General Yvonne Manwa said the suggested expansion is part of the association’s long-term strategy to strengthen the organisation, regulation, and development of football across all levels in the country. The correspondence, dated earlier this week, outlines the association’s vision to enhance competition, broaden participation, and stimulate commercial growth within the domestic football ecosystem.
“The Association acknowledges the League’s consistent efforts in upholding high standards of administration, competition, and commercial engagement,” Manwa wrote. “Pursuant to our mandate to develop, organise, and regulate football across all levels in the country, ZIFA wishes to formally propose the increase in the number of teams participating in the Premier Soccer League from eighteen (18) to twenty (20), effective from the 2026 season.”
According to ZIFA, the expansion proposal is motivated by the need to accommodate more competitive clubs from across the country that have been performing well in the lower divisions. The association believes a 20-team league will create greater opportunities for football development, improve talent visibility, and enhance regional representation. In recent years, several ambitious clubs in Division One leagues have struggled to break into the top flight due to limited promotion slots, often resulting in stagnation and financial frustration.
Beyond expanding the PSL, ZIFA has also proposed the establishment of a unified National First Division League that would consolidate the existing four regional Division One leagues. Currently, the Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Central Region Division One leagues act as feeders into the PSL, each producing one promoted team at the end of the season. Under the new model, the four regions would be merged into a single national competition, designed to improve standards, competitiveness, and logistical efficiency.
ZIFA Plans to Expand Premier Soccer League to 20 Teams
“ZIFA will engage all key stakeholders, including the PSL, Regional Leagues, and club representatives, in the coming months to ensure an inclusive and well-structured implementation plan,” the letter continued. “We kindly request the PSL’s consideration, input, and support towards these initiatives, which we believe are critical to the progressive transformation of Zimbabwean football.”
If the proposal is approved, the 2026 PSL season could feature a more diverse mix of clubs, offering increased entertainment value for fans and additional opportunities for players and sponsors. The expansion would likely mean that the 2025 season’s relegation and promotion framework would need to be adjusted to accommodate the new structure. Football analysts suggest that the PSL might relegate fewer teams than usual next season while promoting additional clubs from Division One to reach the 20-team target.
The move also aligns with international trends, as several top leagues in Africa and beyond operate with 20 teams, allowing for broader participation and larger commercial markets. For Zimbabwe, where football remains the most popular sport, the proposed changes could rejuvenate domestic competitions and attract renewed corporate investment.
However, while the idea has been welcomed by some football enthusiasts and club owners, others have urged caution, citing potential logistical and financial challenges. Expanding the league could increase operational costs, such as travel, accommodation, and match-day expenses—especially for smaller clubs already struggling to stay afloat. There are also concerns that an extended league season might strain stadium infrastructure and officiating resources unless these areas are adequately addressed beforehand.
Nonetheless, proponents argue that the benefits far outweigh the risks. They contend that a 20-team league would bring fresh rivalries, more matches for fans to enjoy, and greater exposure for sponsors and broadcasters. It could also provide a wider platform for emerging young players who often fail to get opportunities in an 18-team setup.
The ZIFA leadership insists that stakeholder consultation will be central to the process, with workshops and review sessions expected to take place before the end of next year. The association aims to finalise an implementation roadmap that ensures sustainability, fairness, and competitiveness.
If successfully executed, this restructuring could mark a turning point for Zimbabwean football, laying the groundwork for a more vibrant, inclusive, and commercially viable Premier Soccer League. After years of administrative turbulence and economic challenges in the sport, ZIFA’s proposal signals a renewed determination to build a modern football structure that can compete regionally and inspire national pride.
For now, all eyes will be on the PSL and its leadership, who must deliberate on the proposal and provide feedback to ZIFA. Whether the plan receives full endorsement or requires further refinement, it has already reignited a critical conversation about the future direction of Zimbabwean football and how best to harness its immense potential.
Source- Bulawayo24
