“FIFA Gives Green Light: Zimbabwe Returns to International Football for World Cup Qualifiers
FIFA Lifts Suspension on Zimbabwe’s Football Association Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers
In a significant development, FIFA has officially lifted its suspension on the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), paving the way for the country’s participation in the African qualification competition for the 2026 World Cup. The decision, confirmed by officials just days before the draw for the qualifiers, marks the end of an 18-month suspension period.
Zimbabwe faced suspension from FIFA in February 2022 due to concerns of government interference in ZIFA’s administration, following allegations of financial mismanagement. The executive committee of ZIFA was dissolved by the Sports and Recreation Commission, a government-appointed body, in November 2021. However, FIFA’s Bureau of the Council has now lifted the suspension and established an interim normalization committee to oversee ZIFA until new management elections can be held.
The normalization committee, led by chairperson Lincoln Mutasa, has been given the responsibility to review ZIFA’s Statutes and Electoral Code, ensuring compliance with FIFA’s regulations and facilitating their adoption during the ZIFA Congress. The committee’s mandate extends until June 2024, allowing for the necessary reforms to be implemented within ZIFA.
This development comes at a crucial time as Zimbabwe eagerly prepares to participate in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. The draw for the qualifiers is scheduled to take place during the CAF Congress in Abidjan, starting this Thursday. The first round of fixtures is set to kick off in November, marking Zimbabwe’s return to competitive international football.
With the suspension lifted, Zimbabwe’s football community can now focus on the future and pursue their dream of qualifying for the prestigious World Cup tournament.
