Editorial Protest: What Hattrick 24’s Boycott Means for South Sudan Football

By: Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan

Juba, South Sudan – April 8, 2026  - In a strong move, Hattrick 24 has announced a boycott of all activities and events organized by the South Sudan Football Association, effective immediately until further notice.

The online Sports Media platform said the decision comes after repeated mistreatment and lack of respect toward the newspaper’s editorial team, including harassment and restrictions by the FA’s media committee, which hindered journalists from performing their professional duties.

“This step aims to draw attention to the ongoing challenges faced by our staff and push for real reforms to develop football in South Sudan,” said the editorial board of Hattrick 24.

The statement shared on their official facebook added that, Hattrick 24 has repeatedly tried to address these issues through meetings with the FA’s First Vice President, the Chair of the Media Committee, and executive members, but the problems persisted throughout the 2025/26 season. Past incidents include mistreatment of journalists during the Premier League match between Al-Malakia and Al-Merreikh Bentiu in October 2025.

The latest incident followed the National Cup clash between Al-Malakia and Al-Ghazala, when journalist Lino Garang was prevented from conducting post-match interviews, prompting the newspaper to escalate to a full boycott.

Hattrick 24 emphasizes that the move is peaceful and intended to serve the wider interests of football in South Sudan. The newspaper calls on clubs, players, fans, and sports administrators to support the initiative, and reiterates its readiness to engage in constructive dialogue with the FA to find sustainable solutions.

“We remain committed to supporting football in South Sudan, but reforms are now a pressing necessity for a better future of the game,” the statement concluded.