The 2026 Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League’s season opener which was set for this weekend has been postponed due to licensing issues and waterlogged pitches caused by persistent rains in Manicaland, the league announced in a statement.
Citing these factors as major concerns for player safety and regulatory compliance, in a statement released last night, the league cited two main reasons for the delay.
Fanzone understands that there has been licensing hurdles that have affected a few clubs and work is in progress to address the hurdle.
Persistent rains that have been pouring in large parts of Manicaland Province have left pitches waterlogged and unsafe for competitive play.
In a clip that has been doing rounds on social media of one of the stadiums set to host league matches in the region depicted an extremely waterlogged pitch.
Here’s the full statement: “The Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League wishes to inform all stakeholders, clubs, and supporters that all league matches scheduled for this weekend have been postponed. This decision has been necessitated by two key factors. Firstly, the league has not yet received the necessary club and player licenses required to officially proceed with fixtures. As per regulations, matches cannot be played without the proper licensing documentation in place. Secondly, persistent rains across parts of the region have resulted in waterlogged playing fields, making them unfit for competitive matches and raising player safety concerns. The league prioritizes compliance with regulatory requirements as well as the safety and welfare of players, officials, and supporters. In light of these circumstances, postponement was deemed the most responsible course of action. A new schedule for the affected fixtures will be communicated in due course once all requirements have been met and playing conditions have improved. The league regrets any inconvenience caused and appreciates the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders.”
A new schedule will be announced once the issues are resolved.
