Experienced referee Ali Sabila - Photo Courtesy FUFA Media.
Ali Chelengat Sabila, one of Uganda's most experienced football referees has announced his retirement from officiating after being excluded from the list of Uganda’s FIFA badge holders.
The updated roster includes prominent names such as Dick Okello, Joshua Duula, William Oloya, Lucky Kasalirwe and George Olemu. However, Sabila, along with fellow referee Mashood Ssali has been omitted.
In an interview with CK Sports, Sabila expressed disappointment over the decision, attributing his retirement to the loss of the prestigious FIFA badge.
“FUFA has forced me to retire. The Federation talks a lot about IFP (Integrity, Fitness, and Performance). I am happy they dropped me when I was at the peak of my career,” Sabila remarked.
Sabila’s illustrious career saw him officiate in some of the biggest matches both locally and internationally. Notable highlights include his role in the CAF Champions League clash between Al Hilal of Sudan and FC Salaam Bor of South Sudan in 2023 as well as the CAF Confederation Cup tie between Al Hilal Elobeid of Sudan and Namungo FC of Tanzania in 2021.
Despite being selected to officiate at the 2023 Total Energies CAF U20 AFCON, Sabila’s participation was shrouded in uncertainty. His contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark on Ugandan football, marking the end of an era in the country's refereeing fraternity.
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