By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 11 December 2025 — The Somali Football Federation (SFF) announced on Thursday that the popular regional football tournament, featuring Somalia’s federal member states and the Banadir region, will begin on 24 January 2026 following a one-year hiatus.
SFF President Ali Abdi Mohamed ‘Ali Shiine’ said the tournament draw is scheduled for 22 December and that the federation will fully organize and manage the competition.
“The tournament will start as planned on 24 January 2026, and the draw will be held on 22 December,” Ali Shiine said.
He called on federal member states and Banadir authorities to strengthen support for football development, including training, equipment, and stadium improvements, emphasizing that the sport serves to unite communities and should remain free from political disputes.
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The federation confirmed the tournament will become an annual event, with hosting duties rotating among the regional administrations.
“We will establish a fixed schedule, the tournament will be held every year, and each regional administration will host it in turn,” Ali Shiine added.
The previous edition was held in January 2024, when Galmudug won the championship amid political tensions that disrupted parts of the competition. Puntland did not participate that year, while the North Eastern State is expected to join the 2026 edition for the first time.
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