Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC have unveiled vastly experienced French tactician Denis Lavagne as their new head coach, signaling a bold step toward strengthening their continental ambitions.
The appointment, confirmed on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 via the club’s official website, sees Lavagne sign a two-year contract at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
He replaces Ivan Jacky Minnaert, who parted ways with the Venoms at the end of the previous campaign.
Lavagne arrives with an extensive coaching résumé that spans multiple continents, having managed in France, Cameroon, Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Sudan, Algeria, Tanzania, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and China.
His wealth of international experience is expected to be instrumental as Vipers seek to establish themselves as a competitive force in the CAF Champions League.
The Frenchman’s most distinguished spell came with Cameroonian giants Coton Sport, where he built a dominant side that clinched four Elite One League titles and three domestic cups.
He also guided the club to the final of the 2008 CAF Champions League—an achievement that elevated his reputation on the African football stage.
His success in Cameroon subsequently earned him the role of head coach of the Cameroon national team, further underlining his pedigree in elite football management.
At Vipers, Lavagne will be supported by familiar local and international expertise.
John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda takes up the role of first team assistant coach, while Belgian specialist Salmi Yassine has been appointed Head of Performance and Fitness.
With a decorated track record and deep understanding of African football, Lavagne now shoulders the responsibility of translating domestic dominance into continental success for the Kitende-based side.
