🟡 VTM Steps Down: Club to Focus on Development After League Exit

Gamononyane-based football club, VTM, has officially confirmed its withdrawal from the Botswana Premier League, shifting its focus to rebuilding and long-term development. This comes after the club opted to swap its league status with Black Lions, a newly formed team linked to former Township Rollers investor, Tendani Sebata.

VTM President Vincent Mafuta stated that while the club may consider a return to top-tier football in the future, its current priority is foundational work—youth development, infrastructure growth, and financial stability.

“Now we must focus on building the club—development, infrastructure,” said Mafuta in a recent interview.

The decision comes after persistent financial challenges. Despite surviving another season in the elite league, VTM struggled to remain afloat without significant sponsors. Mafuta had previously highlighted the rising costs of running a Premier League team and the lack of adequate commercial backing.

The transition will see VTM take up Black Lions’ status in Division Two, effectively stepping down to the regional or youth league level. Most of the current players are expected to transfer to other clubs.

Meanwhile, Botswana Football League CEO Bennett Mamelodi said the league had not been formally notified of the development.

“No, we have not been told anything by anyone. Not even VTM has told us that they are leaving,” Mamelodi told MmegiSport.