Football governing body FIFA announced on Tuesday that it has lifted the suspension of Zimbabwe’s national federation, ZIFA.
As part of the resolution, FIFA has also established a normalization committee to ensure strict adherence to FIFA statutes in Zimbabwe.
This development arrives just ahead of Thursday’s African qualifying draw for the 2026 World Cup.
ZIFA had faced suspension in 2021 due to government intervention, which involved the dissolution of ZIFA leadership following allegations of embezzlement of state funds.
Additionally, the failure to address instances of sexual harassment involving football officials contributed to the suspension.
FIFA strictly prohibits government interference in football matters and imposes sanctions accordingly.
The normalization committee’s responsibilities include overseeing the day-to-day operations of ZIFA, restructuring its administration, reviewing statutes, facilitating new board elections, and establishing a clear agreement with the nation’s sports ministry to define each party’s role.
Zimbabwe’s sports minister, Kirsty Coventry, acknowledged that the suspension period had been challenging and costly but emphasized its potential to benefit football in the country.
