Vipers Sports Club have officially confirmed the appointment of seasoned Belgian coach Ivan Jacky Minnaert as their new head coach.
The 58-year-old tactician was unveiled on Friday, July 18, and joins the reigning Uganda Premier League champions on a long-term deal. However, the club has chosen not to disclose the exact length of his contract.
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Minnaert will take charge with the support of John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda and Fred Muhumuza, who led the Venoms to a domestic double during the 2024/25 season while serving as co-head coaches. The successful duo now return to serve as assistants under the new foreign boss.
Before making the move to Kitende, Minnaert guided Fassell FC to the Liberian Premier League title last season, finishing a commanding 11 points ahead of second-placed Heaven Eleven FC.
His impressive résumé also includes leading Libyan giants Al-Ittihad Tripoli to the league championship in the 2020/21 season. In addition to his spells in Libya and Liberia, Minnaert has held coaching roles at clubs in Spain (Union Estepona CF and CD San Roque), Mali (Djoliba AC), Kenya (AFC Leopards), and Rwanda (Rayon Sport FC – twice).
He has also previously worked with AS Kaloum Star (Guinea), Mukura Victory FC (Rwanda), and South Africa’s Black Leopards FC — highlighting his vast coaching experience across Africa and Europe.
Minnaert holds a UEFA Pro License, the highest coaching qualification, bringing a wealth of tactical knowledge and international pedigree to the Venoms’ dugout.
