Uganda Premier League side, Vipers Sports Club have unveiled Belgian coach Ivan Jacky Minnaert as their new head coach on a permanent basis.
The 58-year-old UEFA Pro License holder brings a wealth of experience from across Africa and Europe, and has signed a long-term deal with the Ugandan giants.
Minnaert takes over the reins from interim coaches John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda and Fred Muhumuza, who led the Venoms to a domestic double in the 2024/25 season. Both coaches will remain at the club as assistants.
Minnaert joins Vipers SC from Liberia’s Fassell Football Club, where he guided the side to the Liberian Premier League title last season, finishing 11 points clear of their closest rivals, Heaven Eleven FC.
The Belgian’s coaching journey has seen him manage top sides across the continent, including Libya’s Al-Ittihad Tripoli—whom he steered to a league title in 2020/21—Spain’s Union Estepona CF and CD San Roque, Mali’s Djoliba AC, Kenya’s AFC Leopards, Rwanda’s Rayon Sport FC (twice), Guinea’s AS Kaloum Star, Mukura Victory FC in Rwanda, and South Africa’s Black Leopards FC.
His experience in CAF competitions is also notable, having coached in both the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup, with a combined record that includes several wins and group stage appearances.
