Zambian Government Halts Funding To National Team Over World Cup Qualification Failure
2 min read
By Sportsgister
The Zambian Government has issued a stern warning to the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), demanding a detailed justification for the continued use of public funds to support the men’s national football team, Chipolopolo, following their recent string of disappointing results.
In an official letter titled “Request for Justification for Continued Government Financial Support Despite the Men’s National Team’s Poor Run of Results,” the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts expressed deep concern over the team’s declining performances under head coach Avram Grant.
Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe directed the letter to FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shapenda, giving the association seven days to explain the steps being taken to monitor and evaluate Grant’s performance in line with his contract.
“The Ministry is writing to express concern regarding the continued poor run of results recorded by the senior men’s national football team in recent international engagements,” the letter stated.
“Despite the government’s tight fiscal situation, significant public resources continue to be allocated to support the national team and the technical bench, including the coach’s salary, player bonuses, accommodation, and air travel. We therefore seek a clear justification for this continued funding in the absence of corresponding success on the pitch.”
The directive follows Zambia’s 1–0 defeat to Niger in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola—a result that further dampened hopes of qualification.
The government has also demanded a comprehensive report from FAZ detailing:
1. The measures being implemented to improve the national team’s performance and long-term competitiveness;
2. The systems in place to evaluate Avram Grant’s performance against his contractual obligations; and
3. Justification for why government funding should not be suspended or terminated given the team’s poor run of results.
Chileshe emphasized that accountability and transparency are non-negotiable when public funds are involved, noting that continued financial support will depend on FAZ’s ability to present a credible plan for improvement.
> “Football remains a cornerstone of Zambia’s cultural and sporting identity. While the government remains committed to supporting the game, we must ensure that public investment yields meaningful results and drives genuine progress,” he stated.
Acting on the directive of the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu, the Ministry has temporarily halted all financial support to the men’s national team pending FAZ’s submission of a clear roadmap to restore competitiveness.
“Following guidance from the Honourable Minister, the Ministry has suspended further funding to the national team until FAZ presents a practical roadmap for rebuilding Zambian football,” Chileshe added.
He confirmed that the Ministry will honor existing financial commitments, including unpaid salaries, bonuses, and allowances, but stressed that future support will depend on FAZ’s response, due no later than October 20, 2025.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
