The Industrial Relations Court has drastically reduced former Malawi national football team coach Patrick Mabedi's unfair dismissal compensation claim against the Football Association of Malawi (FAM). In a ruling delivered on May 25, 2026, Deputy Chairperson Whyson Nkhata ordered FAM to pay Mabedi MK53.6 million in damages, a massive reduction from the MK916 million the ex-coach originally demanded following his dismissal in October 2024. According to the Nyasa Times, the court agreed that Mabedi was unfairly dismissed but rejected the bulk of his monetary claims, giving both parties 30 days to appeal the decision to the High Court.
In domestic football development, FAM has officially approved the introduction of a Reserve League to run parallel to the top-tier competition. The initiative aims to provide a structured platform for reserve teams affiliated with elite clubs, strengthening player development and creating a clear progression pathway for emerging talent. Under the newly approved framework, if a senior club is relegated from the Elite League, its corresponding reserve side will automatically be relegated from the Reserve League.
Meanwhile, in the Malawi Premier League, Silver Strikers and Mighty Wanderers played to a goalless draw in their weekend fixture on May 24, 2026. The 0-0 result keeps the title race tight as teams navigate the early stages of the newly adjusted 2026 football calendar.