The first week of the season in Malawi brought not sporting excitement, but disappointment and frustration. Fans who invested in VIP tickets received not comfort, but confusion, a lack of seating, and disrespect.

Disappointment instead of luxury

When the 2025 TNM Super League kicked off with championship-level enthusiasm, no one expected that the VIP section — a supposed symbol of comfort and prestige — would become a source of outrage. Fans who paid 15,000 kwacha for VIP tickets (about $530) found themselves not only uncomfortable, but downright humiliated. At two venues, instead of assigned, comfortable seating, they encountered chaos.

When purchasing VIP seats, one expects a standard that matches the price — order and comfort. And although Malawian stadiums failed in that regard, in the digital world, quality can still be expected. For example, premier bet malawi offers competitive odds, a wide selection of betting markets, and secure transactions designed specifically for players in Malawi.

During the match at Bingu National Stadium between Silver Strikers and Nyasa Big Bullets, and at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre where Wanderers played Blue Eagles, the VIP section was overcrowded. Despite prior reservations and payment, spectators had to stand for the entire match or find seating elsewhere. Frustration and confusion prevailed.

© Peter Makawana

Anger, disappointment, and lack of accountability

One of the most outraged voices came from well-known influencer and football fan Sylvester Ayuba, who didn’t mince words: I had to stand the whole match. This is stupid. Very stupid! You can’t fail at even the most basic things. Where is the value for money in all of this?

Similar feelings were shared by nearly twenty other fans at Kamuzu Stadium who were left without seats despite having purchased tickets. Their frustration was echoed by Wanderers marketing officer, Greyson Chapita: It’s not just frustrating. It’s embarrassing and disrespectful. VIP is not just about the view — it’s about comfort and convenience. He pointed to the core issue — a lack of respect for fans as customers and event partners.

© Peter Makawana

Everyone innocent, yet problem persists

In the face of the crisis, George Phiri, manager of Bingu National Stadium, spoke out, distancing himself from the accusations and shifting responsibility to the organizers, stating that ticket sales and access control were the responsibility of SULOM, not the stadium. We advised them on seating capacity and numbers.

Even more surprising was the response from Ireen Mkoko Phiri, manager of Kamuzu Stadium, who refused to comment, claiming no official complaint had been filed.

Ronald Chiwaula, SULOM vice president, partially admitted the shortcomings: There were gaps, especially at Bingu. Some fans who weren’t VIPs made it into the section. We’ve learned our lessons and will improve. This admission may be a first step toward improvement, but questions about trust and the competence of the organizers remain unanswered.

© Peter Makawana

Not just a slip-up, but warning sign

For football analyst Pickford Kamangi, this situation is more than just an organizational slip-up. In his view, it’s an important warning sign for the entire football scene in Malawi: Fans are coming back in large numbers. E-tickets must be reinforced, and VIP seating must reflect what fans are paying for.

In his opinion, fan attendance at stadiums is a growth opportunity — but only if their expectations are met with professionalism. Otherwise, lost trust will be difficult to regain.