The race for the 2025/26 BK Pro League Player of the Season award has entered its final stage, with the shortlisted nominees confirmed ahead of the awards ceremony scheduled for July 11 at the Kigali Marriott Hotel. The prestigious accolade will recognise the league's standout performer after an outstanding 2025/26 campaign. The final shortlist features Jean Claude Girumugisha and El Hadj Madické Kane of Al Hilal SC, APR FC duo Djibril Ouattara and Jean Gilbert Byiringiro, and Marines FC striker Taiba Mbonyumwami. ALSO READ: BK Pro League Awards: Player of the Season to receive car worth Rwf 15m Girumugisha has been one of Al Hilal's most consistent performers this season, scoring nine goals and providing 11 assists. The 21-year-old's work rate, positional awareness and creativity played a pivotal role in the club's title-winning campaign. Alongside him is Kane, whose physical presence, leadership and ability to deliver in crucial moments made him one of the league's most influential players. Marines FC forward Taiba also earned a place on the shortlist after an impressive campaign in which he scored 17 league goals, finishing just one behind top scorer Ouattara. APR FC midfielder Byiringiro is another nominee after enjoying a breakthrough season. His relentless work rate, ball recoveries and composure in possession provided balance and stability for the league champions throughout the campaign. His teammate Ouattara also makes the shortlist after spearheading APR's title-winning season with his prolific goalscoring form. The Burkinabe striker finished as the league's top scorer with 18 goals. The winner of the Player of the Season award will receive a car worth Rwf15 million. Best Young Player nominees The race for the Best Young Player of the Season award is equally competitive. Al Hilal SC forward Emmanuel Flomo heads the shortlist after a remarkable debut campaign. The Liberian finished as the league's third-highest scorer with 12 goals and played a key role in Al Hilal's championship-winning season while also topping the fan vote. He is joined by teammate Adama Coulibaly, whose tireless displays and tactical intelligence made him a key figure in Al Hilal's midfield, and Gicumbi FC's Clement Bitwayiki Bahati, whose decisive goals and standout performances earned him recognition despite his club's modest campaign. Coach of the Season The Coach of the Season award will be contested by APR FC's Abderrahim Taleb, who guided the club to a historic domestic treble; Laurențiu Reghecampf, who led Al Hilal SC to the league title before leaving for Espérance de Tunis; and Francis Haringingo, who oversaw an impressive campaign with SC Kiyovu before taking charge of Rayon Sports. Winners in all categories will be determined through a combined voting process involving fans, an expert panel, sports journalists, club captains and head coaches.
