The road to Uganda’s most prestigious domestic trophy officially gathered momentum on Wednesday as the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) conducted the Stanbic Uganda Cup Round of 64 draw for the 52nd edition of the competition..
Held at the Protea Hotel Kampala on January 28, 2026, the draw confirmed the fixtures that will be played between February 4 and 10, ushering the tournament into one of its most competitive phases. The Stanbic Uganda Cup, widely regarded as the country’s most inclusive football competition, continues to bring together clubs from across all levels of the Ugandan football pyramid.
Speaking at the ceremony, FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Nakiwala Florence Kiyingi hailed the steady growth of the competition and the unwavering support from its partners, Stanbic Bank and Plascon Uganda.
“We are very grateful as the football fraternity and our sponsors for the journey we have moved together so far,” Kiyingi said. “The competition has grown from 316 to 333 participating clubs, and that is something we are extremely proud of.”
She emphasized that the Uganda Cup remains the most inclusive men’s football tournament in the country, offering opportunity and visibility to clubs regardless of status or division. Kiyingi also paid tribute to defending champions Vipers SC, noting that they have set a high benchmark for challengers.
“Any team that intends to lift this trophy must be ready to match the standards set by Vipers SC,” she added. “There is a total of UGX 180 million in prize money, with the winners taking home UGX 50 million. Importantly, every team that participates will walk away with something.”
Adding a sense of history to the occasion, the draw was conducted by former Uganda Cup winner Umar Ssenoga, who lifted the trophy with Express FC in 1991 and 1992 before claiming another title with KCCA FC in 1993. His presence served as a reminder of the competition’s rich legacy and enduring impact on Ugandan football.
FUFA Competitions Director Hajati Aisha Nalule was also present and oversaw the process to ensure that the draw was conducted in full compliance with competition regulations.
The rising number of entrants underlines the tournament’s continued expansion. While 308 teams featured in the 49th edition, participation increased to 312 in the 50th edition, 316 in the 51st, and now a record 333 clubs in the ongoing 52nd edition.












