Liberia Football Association Increases Prize Money to Boost Competitiveness
The Liberia Football Association (LFA) has taken a bold step to enhance the competitiveness of its leagues by significantly increasing prize money for the LFA First Division and the Women’s Upper Division. This decision aligns with LFA’s commitment to fostering football at all levels and encouraging healthy competition.
Major Increases in Prize Money
Effective from the 2025/26 league season, the LFA First Division prize money will see a remarkable 50% increase. The champions of this league are set to receive a prize of US$30,000, up from the previous US$20,000. For the Women’s Upper Division, the prize money will rise by 25%, elevating the champions’ reward to US$25,000.
Synchronized Prize Money for the FA Cup
In a move to ensure parity, the prize money for the FA Cup will also be raised and synchronized across both men’s and women’s categories. Starting in 2025/26, each cup winner will receive US$10,000, a significant increase compared to the previous amounts which favored men’s teams.
Support for Women’s Football
Furthermore, the LFA is committed to bolstering women’s football through increased financial support. The subventions for clubs in the Upper Women’s Division will be raised by US$1,500, resulting in a total of US$7,500 per club per season. This additional support is facilitated by the CAF Impact Fund.
Historical Context of Prize Money Growth
First Division Champions’ Prize History
- 2025/26 Champions: US$30,000
- 2021/22 Champions: US$20,000
- 2020/21 Champions: L$1.6 million (approx. US$8,420)
- 2018/19 Champions: L$1.5 million (approx. US$7,895)
Women’s Upper Division Champions’ Prize History
- 2025/26 Champions: US$25,000
- 2021/22 Champions: US$20,000
- 2020/21 Champions: L$600,000 (approx. US$3,070)
- 2018/19 Champions: L$550,000 (approx. US$2,890)
Future Developments
The LFA Executive Committee, presided over by President Mustapha I. Raji, convened on August 8 to approve these significant changes. Furthermore, it was announced that the number of teams in the Men’s First Division will be expanded from 14 to 16 starting in the 2026/27 season. Additionally, the upcoming Beach Soccer League will be capped at 10 teams for the 2025/26 season.
Committee for Structural Development
A committee has been established to devise a structured framework for the LFA League Board, consisting of:
- Sylvanus Morris – Chairman (Global Pharma)
- Casandra Hampton – Co-Chair (Mighty Barrolle)
- Chris Weah – Member (Stages Queens)
- Kla M.B. Wilson – Member
- Edwin Baysah – Member
- Pawala Janyan – Exco Official
This strategic investment underscores the LFA’s dedication to elevating the competitive standards of football across Liberia, ensuring support for both men’s and women’s leagues.
