Zifa proposes to increase teams in Premier Soccer League to 20 from 18, beginning next year

THE Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) has proposed to increase the teams in the Premier Soccer League to 20 from 18, beginning next year.

Zifa secretary-general Yvonne Mapika Manwa said the expansion would benefit both organisations by boosting local competition, identifying untapped talent and generating more revenue.

The governing body argues that a 20-team structure would dramatically enhance competition and help unearth pure talent lying hidden within peripheral and “marginalised” societies.

“Expanding the league will create more opportunities for clubs from various regions to participate at the highest level, thereby promoting inclusivity, talent identification, and balanced regional representation,” Zifa said.

Zifa said the expansion of the league would significantly increase their revenues through sponsorship and publicity.

“An increased number of fixtures enhances the league’s commercial appeal, offering more content for broadcasters, sponsors, and fans — thus contributing to the league’s financial sustainability and visibility,” it said.

The proposal noted the 20-team structure is aligned with global best practices, citing the model adopted by leading leagues internationally, which allows for 380 matches per season.

“A 20-team structure is widely adopted by leading football leagues globally and provides for a more comprehensive competition calendar aligned with the Fifa calendar year,” Zifa said.

In tandem with the proposed PSL expansion, Zifa also proposed the development of a National First Division League. This division would operate as the immediate feeder league to the PSL, similar to the English Football Championship, Spanish Segunda Division, and Serie B in Europe.

The primary reasons for this proposed division are to standardise competition across regions under a unified national framework and enhance the pathway between grassroots, regional and elite football.

It has also been mooted to improve systems transparently and competitively.

However, the proposal surfaces at a controversial time. With some top teams currently facing relegation unless they seize their survival chances next week, some fans believe the plan is a convenient tactic for big clubs to buy their way out of trouble.