In Sudan, the national football league has been suspended since April 2023 due to ongoing armed conflict. This situation has forced Sudanese football clubs to play their continental matches outside their borders, significantly impacting the football landscape in the region.
It has now been officially confirmed that three prominent Sudanese clubs—Al-Merrikh, Al Hilal Omdurman, and Al Ahli SC Wad Madani—have submitted requests to the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) to participate in the Rwandan Premier League for the 2025/26 season. This crucial decision follows weeks of intense speculation and deliberation.
Augustin Bigirimana, Operations Manager for the Rwanda Premier League, revealed to RBA (Rwanda Broadcasting Agency) that comprehensive plans have already been laid out to accommodate the Sudanese clubs. These include a revised fixtures calendar that has been finalized and is now awaiting formal approval, paving the way for their potential inclusion in the league.
Notably, Al-Merrikh had previously been granted permission to compete in the Libyan Premier League this season, owing to the suspension of domestic football activities in Sudan. This highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Sudanese clubs. Meanwhile, the 2025/26 Rwandan Premier League is already underway with 16 teams in contention, and four matchdays have been successfully completed.
Al Hilal Omdurman has formally requested inclusion into the Rwandan Premier League.
Al Ahli SC Wad Madani is also seeking opportunities to join the Rwandan league. 
Al-Merrikh, a historic Sudanese club, could soon be competing in the Rwandan Premier League, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of Sudanese football in trying times.