FAM Undecided on NDL Expansion Despite Growing Pressure

The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has not yet decided whether to expand the NBS Bank National Division League beyond its current 12-team format, despite mounting calls from stakeholders for change.

Speaking at a media briefing at Mpira Village on Thursday, FAM officials said they would need to complete a comprehensive review of the inaugural season before making any structural changes to the competition.

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FAM and NBS Bank representatives gathered to provide updates on the league’s progress and outline preparations for Sunday’s final match day, but confirmed that discussions about expansion remain premature.

“When the competitions committee meet, they will decide on whether to increase the number or not. After making a decision, we will come here and inform you,” said FAM Marketing Manager Mayamiko Kafwamba.

Several voices in Malawian football have advocated for increasing the league size to 16 or 18 teams, arguing that the current format creates excessive instability for participating clubs.

Sports analyst Justin Mitambo made a compelling argument for expansion, highlighting the mathematical challenge facing teams in a 12-team league with significant relegation.

“If the league is relegating four teams, then 12 is a small number,” Mitambo explained. “If the adjustment is made, it would be good for the teams because if you miss promotion, you have to fight for the five places left, and any mistake means you’re in relegation.”

Mitambo also suggested that a larger league would better prepare promoted teams for the rigors of top-flight football. “This would be a complete test for teams who will be promoted into the Elite League, as they would face a challenge equally to what they will be facing in the Super League,” he added.

Beyond the question of league size, FAM also indicated that the start date for the second edition of the NDL remains undecided. The association is awaiting direction from title sponsor NBS Bank before announcing the kickoff date.

“The kickoff of the second edition of the league will be communicated in due time, as the sponsor, NBS Bank, is yet to make a decision on that,” Kafwamba stated.

The maiden NDL season kicked off on May 26, 2025, and has already determined its promoted teams. Red Lions, Baka City, and Mitundu Baptist have secured promotion to the TNM Super League, rewarding their consistent performances throughout the campaign.

At the other end of the table, Chilumba Barracks and Jenda United have already been relegated. Sunday’s final match day will determine the remaining two relegated teams from among Mchinji Villa, Chintheche United, and Ntaja United—all fighting to avoid the drop.

FAM’s competitions committee will meet following the conclusion of the season to evaluate the league’s structure, competitiveness, and overall success. That post-mortem analysis will inform decisions about potential expansion and any other format changes for future editions.

For now, the focus remains on completing the inaugural season and celebrating its achievements before addressing structural questions about the league’s future.