Sierra Leone Premier League champions Bo Rangers FC have officially withdrawn from the upcoming CAF Champions League, despite qualifying for the competition after winning the 2025/26 league title.
The decision means the club will not represent Sierra Leone in Africa’s premier club competition, citing financial constraints as the primary reason for its withdrawal.
Financial burden proves too great
In a statement, Bo Rangers explained that the cost of participating in the CAF Champions League exceeded the club’s financial capacity.
Competing in the tournament requires clubs to cover substantial expenses, including:
- International travel
- Accommodation
- Logistics
- Player welfare
- Match organisation
- Compliance with CAF regulations
According to the club, limited financial resources made it impossible to meet those obligations, forcing them to forfeit their place before the competition begins.
Disappointment after domestic success
Bo Rangers secured qualification on sporting merit after being crowned champions of the Sierra Leone Premier League, making the withdrawal particularly disappointing for players, coaches and supporters who had hoped to compete against some of Africa’s top clubs.
The club will now focus its attention on domestic football while working to improve its financial position for future continental campaigns.
Wider challenge for African clubs
Bo Rangers’ decision once again highlights the financial challenges faced by many clubs across Africa, particularly in countries where commercial revenue and sponsorship opportunities remain limited.
Although CAF has increased prize money for its inter-club competitions in recent years, participating clubs must often absorb significant upfront costs before receiving any financial rewards.
The withdrawal leaves Sierra Leone without its league champions in the upcoming CAF Champions League and renews debate about the financial sustainability of club football across the continent.
For Bo Rangers, the priority now shifts to strengthening the club off the field with the aim of returning to continental competition under more sustainable financial conditions in the future.
