Match in Tanzania halted as players lie down to avoid swarm of bees

A domestic match in Babati, Tanzania, was temporarily suspended after a swarm of bees forced players, match officials and a television cameraman to take cover on the pitch.

City FC Abuja and JKU FC were level at 1-1 when play was stopped in the 78th minute at Kwaraa Stadium on Sept. 5, 2025, as the insects swept through the area. Players dropped to the ground, an assistant referee and a TV camera operator also sought refuge, and substitutes were reported to have hidden under benches behind the dugout while the swarm passed.

According to local media accounts, spectators in the stands largely remained in their seats; it was not clear whether they were unaware of the situation or were unbothered by the buzzing insects. There were no immediate reports of injuries to players, officials or staff, and the game was able to resume after the stoppage.

Play restarted and the match concluded with City FC Abuja scoring a late winner to secure victory. Match officials exercised their discretion to suspend play for player safety, and the incident did not prevent the completion of the fixture.

Stoppages for external hazards, including animals and other wildlife, are within a referee’s authority when conditions present a safety risk. In this instance, organisers and officials prioritised player and staff safety before allowing the match to continue.

The interruption drew attention on social media and in local reports because of the unusual nature of the stoppage. Organisers did not immediately issue a formal statement detailing the length of the delay or any follow-up measures taken to prevent similar disruptions at Kwaraa Stadium.