CHAN 2024: Gov't offers fans 28,000 free tickets for third-place playoff
Football fans in Uganda will watch Saturday’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) third-place playoff between Sudan and Senegal for free, after organisers bought up all available tickets.
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) said it had purchased the 28,000 tickets for distribution, meaning none will be on sale.
“With this arrangement, the LOC has purchased all tickets available for sale for tomorrow’s 3rd/4th place playoff,” said Dennis Mugimba, chair of the committee’s communications team. “As a result, there will not be any tickets available for sale to the public.”
Supporters can claim the complimentary tickets through CAF’s official website using the promo code CHAN3RD, with each person allowed up to three. The tickets will carry normal security features and be verified at stadium gates, despite being clearly marked “Not for Sale.”
The decision was described as a gesture of appreciation for Ugandan fans, whose turnout at Cranes matches set records during the country’s first CHAN co-hosting with Kenya and Tanzania under the Pamoja banner.
Uganda’s campaign ended in the quarter-finals with defeat to Senegal, but crowds regularly exceeded 32,000 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
First Lady and LOC chair Janet Museveni praised supporters, saying: “You have made our homeland proud during this historic hosting. The experience has been both memorable and successful.”
The playoff, kicking off at 18:00 local time, will also feature performances from Ugandan stars including Jose Chameleone, John Blaq, Elijah Kitaka and Vinka, with a music show scheduled before and after the match.
