The Premier League of Eswatini has reported that its 32 member clubs accumulated fines totaling E403,000 in the 2025/26 season. However, after some amounts were suspended, the final figure was reduced to E350,000. This significant amount has raised concerns as clubs head into the new season, with many already struggling with limited resources and financial instability.
Mbabane Highlanders topped the fines tally with E60,000, largely due to crowd violence that led to the abandonment of their Ingwenyama Cup match against Nsingizini Hotspurs. Other top offenders included Mbabane Swallows with E45,000, Ubombo with E35,000, Manzini Sea Birds with E40,000, and Amawele and Nsingizini Hotspurs, both with E30,000. These fines are particularly concerning as some clubs' penalties exceeded their prize money from the MTN Premier League and MulaSport National First Division.
The issue of fines is not unique to Eswatini, as neighboring countries face similar challenges. In Lesotho, penalties for misconduct typically range from low to mid-thousands of Maloti. The reigning champions of the Lesotho Premier League were recently fined E10,000, with E5,000 suspended, for supporter misconduct during a match.
The most common forms of misconduct in Eswatini's Premier League and National First Division included crowd violence, fan assaults on match officials, and the use of foreign substances. Other offenses included unauthorized stadium entries, technical bench non-compliance, player assaults on referees, and absences from the media medical workshop.
Some clubs, such as Amawele, Masundvwini Royal Swallows, and Ubombo Sugar, accumulated fines that exceeded their prize money from both the MTN Premier League and the MulaSport National First Division. Masundvwini Royal Swallows, for example, received only E5,000 in prize money but were fined a substantial amount for various offenses.
The Premier League of Eswatini's Activity Report for the 2025/26 season highlights the need for clubs to address misconduct and manage their finances effectively. With the new season underway, clubs will need to balance their budgets and prioritize compliance with league regulations to avoid accumulating hefty fines.
The issue of club misconduct and financial struggles is a pressing concern for the Premier League of Eswatini. As the league continues to monitor and address these issues, clubs must take proactive steps to manage their finances, ensure compliance with regulations, and promote a culture of sportsmanship and respect.
Key points
- Eswatini Premier League clubs accumulated fines totaling E350,000 in the 2025/26 season.
- Mbabane Highlanders topped the fines tally with E60,000.
- The most common forms of misconduct included crowd violence, fan assaults on match officials, and the use of foreign substances.
