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A Premier League assistant referee tragically collapsed and passed away mid-match, leaving players, officials, and fans in deep mourning.
Tragedy struck in the first division of the Uganda football league on Friday evening when assistant referee Peter Kabugo collapsed during a game between SC Villa and UPDF FC at the Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku.
The seasoned referee was officiating the intense match, which saw SC Villa take a commanding lead when he collapsed on the field.
Kabugo fell to the ground in the 70th minute just as SC Villa launched a counterattack that led to their fifth goal of the Uganda Premier League game.
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Simon Semayange, Villa's left-back, was the first player to reach Kabugo.
Semayange, who had stayed back from celebrating with his teammates, saw the assistant referee fall and immediately waved to center referee George Olemu to summon medics.
Despite the rapid response from pitch-side medical staff, Kabugo's condition worsened.
"The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) regrets to announce the sudden passing of National Assistant Referee Peter Kabugo, who collapsed during a league match at Wankulukuku Stadium on Friday 1st November 2024," read a statement from FUFA.
"FUFA extends heartfelt condolences to Peter’s family, loved ones, Uganda Football Referees Association, and friends. We request privacy for the family during this difficult time."
Kabugo was swiftly transported to Bismillah Hospital in nearby Kitebi, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The match, which saw SC Villa claim a decisive 5-0 victory, continued to completion before players and officials received the tragic news of Kabugo’s passing.
Players, fans, and officials across Africa have expressed shock and sorrow at the loss of Kabugo, a respected figure in Ugandan football.
On social media, several Ugandan football clubs and referees shared tributes to the late assistant referee, highlighting his commitment and contributions to the sport.
“Peter was a true professional and a respected colleague. This is a sad day for Ugandan football. He will be greatly missed,” said a fellow referee Henry Byaruhanga who had worked alongside Kabugo on several occasions.
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A postmortem examination is expected to be conducted to determine the exact cause of his sudden collapse and subsequent death.
However, the incident has sparked discussions about health and safety measures for match officials, especially in high-intensity games.
Kabugo’s tragic passing has left many calling for regular health screenings and the presence of advanced medical facilities at all league venues.
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The Uganda Premier League is one of the most popular football competitions in East Africa with a passionate fan base both within the country and among neighboring nations like Kenya.
FUFA has promised to support Kabugo’s family and plans to hold a memorial in his honor.
Kabugo will be remembered not just as an official, but as a dedicated servant of the game whose legacy will live on in Ugandan and East African football.
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