Mamello Rakotsoane
The Premier League Management Committee (PLMC), in partnership with Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) and the Sam Matekane Foundation (SMF), has officially launched the 2026 People’s Cup.
The launch event, held at Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena, confirmed a M1.1 million sponsorship package for this year’s edition, underscoring the competition’s growing commercial value and its role in supporting domestic football.
The tournament will be staged on April 25, 2026, at Bocheletsane Stadium in Mantšonyane, where the four most-voted Premier League clubs will compete for top honours.
Voting officially opened on March 18, with bulk voting set to close on April 12, while all voting lines will shut at midnight on April 15, 2026. Supporters can vote for their preferred clubs via SMS using designated codes, maintaining fan participation as a central feature of the competition.
PLMC’s General Manager, ’Mabonolo Senekane, said the tournament continues to play a pivotal role in developing local football while deepening fan engagement.
“We are proud to officially launch the 2026 People’s Cup here in Maseru, marking the return of a tournament that continues to grow in both impact and excitement. This year’s M1.1 million sponsorship reflects the strong commitment of our partners, including Econet Telecom Lesotho and the Sam Matekane Foundation, towards the development of local football,”
“As PLMC, we believe the People’s Cup is more than just a competition, it is a platform that empowers supporters to actively shape the game while creating real value for clubs. The voting process ensures that fans remain at the Centre of the tournament, giving them a direct voice in determining which teams compete,”
“We encourage Basotho to participate fully by voting for their favorite clubs and supporting this initiative. The tournament, set for the 25th of April in Mantšonyane, promises to deliver exciting football while strengthening the future of our sport,” Senekane explained.
On his part, PLMC’ Chairperson, Hlompho Maitin, highlighted the tournament’s contribution to strengthening the domestic football ecosystem.
“The People’s Cup has become an important platform for growing football in Lesotho because it places supporters at the centre while creating direct value for the football clubs,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the sponsors, ETL’s Acting General Manager for Marketing Communications and Customer Experience, Puleng ’Mathabo Masoabi, emphasised the competition’s broader socio-economic impact.
“The People’s Cup demonstrates the power of football in uniting Basotho while creating meaningful opportunities for clubs and communities,” she said, adding that digital platforms such as EcoCash and SMS continue to enhance fan participation.
The 2026 winner will take home M400,000, while the runner-up will receive M200,000. Third and fourth-placed teams will each earn M100,000. Individual accolades, including Player of the Tournament, Top Goal Scorer and Goalkeeper of the Tournament, will also be awarded.
Revenue generated through voting will be shared, with 45 percent allocated to participating clubs, 45 percent to ETL and 10 percent covering administrative costs, ensuring the sustainability of the competition.
To further incentivise participation, 10 lucky voters who spend at least M100 will win access to 30 matches in the upcoming Premier League season.
Summary
- “We are proud to officially launch the 2026 People’s Cup here in Maseru, marking the return of a tournament that continues to grow in both impact and excitement.
- “As PLMC, we believe the People’s Cup is more than just a competition, it is a platform that empowers supporters to actively shape the game while creating real value for clubs.
- “The People’s Cup has become an important platform for growing football in Lesotho because it places supporters at the centre while creating direct value for the football clubs,” he said.
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