More Money For SPFL

The launching of the St. Lucia Semi Professional Football League (SPFL) showcased a number of new features as the tournament enters its third edition.

The launch brought together stakeholder of the competition and the sport to the conference room of the Bel Jou Hotel at La Panse, Castries.

The ceremony also facilitated the official introduction of the new SPFL CEO Alvin Malaykhan who had big plans for the future of the tournament.

An inspiring presentation by Chairperson of the SPFL board and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports Dr. Uralise Delaire sought to give listeners a broad view of the tournament thus far while simultaneously looking to the future of St. Lucia football. She revealed that the improved version of the game will feature some 143 matches spanning from June 2026 to January 2027 with an injection of 1.5 million dollars. Additionally, medical insurance has been established for tournament participants, teams are now allowed to field up to 7 technical persons, a soft skill component, and the inclusion of stringent drug testing which will include non-illicit drugs.

Incoming CEO Alvin Malaykhan says this version of the tournament will not just be about football but will focus on structure, opportunity, discipline, professionalism, community pride, youth development and national growth through sport.

Malaykhan promised that this year’s tournament will be the most exciting and strategic season yet.

The tournament kicks off with a Community Shield style match between tier 1 Champions La Clery and tier 2 champions Anse La Raye at the Phillip Marcellin Grounds in Vieux Fort on June 27th. Vieux Fort South will also face Vieux Fort North as part of the opening day fixtures.

Tier 1 will follow the same format as last year’s edition while Tier 2 will be divided into two groups of 5 with each team facing each other once in the group stage with the two top teams moving on to the final round.