ZIFA Considers Expanding Premier Soccer League To 20 Teams

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is reportedly weighing up plans to expand the Premier Soccer League (PSL) from 18 to 20 teams as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s football structure and align it with international standards.

According to sources within the association, the proposal is part of ZIFA’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving competitiveness, increasing participation, and creating a more sustainable football ecosystem across the country.

ZIFA believes that increasing the number of top flight teams will allow more players and clubs from different parts of Zimbabwe to gain exposure at the highest level. The expansion could also boost local economies, fan engagement, and sponsorship opportunities by bringing Premier League football to more regions.

In addition to the proposed PSL expansion, ZIFA is also pushing to introduce a National First Division League to replace the current regional Division One structure. The new format would streamline the promotion and relegation system and create a more standardized pathway for clubs aspiring to reach the top flight.

“The goal is to modernize our football system so that it mirrors the best global practices,” a ZIFA official said. “A national second-tier league will make competition more balanced and help us monitor talent development across the country more effectively.”

If approved, the structural changes would represent one of the most significant overhauls of Zimbabwe’s domestic football league system in recent years. However, the proposal is expected to face logistical challenges, including financial constraints, travel costs, and infrastructure readiness, especially for clubs outside major cities.

ZIFA is expected to consult key stakeholders, including the PSL board, club owners, and regional associations, before finalizing the plan. An official announcement on the implementation timeline could be made before the start of the 2026 season.