Al Merriekh crowned Sudanese Premier League champions after Appeals Committee overturns Al Hilal title win

Sudanese football has been rocked by a dramatic late twist after Al Merriekh were officially declared the champions of the 2025/26 Sudanese Premier League, replacing rivals Al Hilal, who had initially been recognised as winners of the recently concluded mini league.

The Sudanese Football Association’s Appeals Committee ruled in favour of Al Merriekh following a dispute involving the derby match against Al Hilal, awarding the club a 2-0 victory and three crucial points.

The decision significantly altered the final standings and handed Al Merriekh the league title.

Before the ruling, Al Hilal had been recognised as champions after the mini league phase, but the latest decision means they are no longer considered the holders of the title and have been ordered to relinquish the championship status with immediate effect.

Following the adjustment of the standings, Al Merriekh finished top of the table with 21 points from seven matches, while Al Hilal dropped into second place with 18 points.

The Appeals Committee’s verdict has brought an unexpected conclusion to a highly competitive title race between Sudan’s two biggest clubs, with Al Merriekh now officially confirmed as the 2025/26 Sudanese Premier League champions.

The decision is expected to spark further debate among supporters of both clubs, given the historic rivalry between Al Merriekh and Al Hilal, but the Sudanese FA’s ruling has formally settled the championship outcome.