Gvt halts Chipolopolo funding over poor performance

The government has halted financial support to the Football Association of Zambia Senior Men’s National Football Team, following a string of poor showing in recent international matches.

The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts and the National Sports Council of Zambia, has highlighted the necessity for justification for continued public funding in face of poor results.

In a statement issued on 13th October 2025, the Ministry has expressed concern over the team’s lack of progress despite significant government expenditure on accommodation, air tickets, bonuses, and the coach’s salary.

The Ministry has emphasised that while government remains committed to supporting sports, it expects tangible results that reflect the level of financial investment made by taxpayers.

Government has since directed FAZ to provide a detailed explanation outlining measures being taken to improve the team’s performance, monitoring mechanisms for the head coach’s contract, and reasons why public funding should not be terminated.

FAZ has been given until 20th October 2025 to respond, after which government will make a final decision on the future of its financial relationship with the association.

Meanwhile, the National Sports Council of Zambia has further warned other sports associations to uphold high performance standards, announcing plans to introduce a National Association Performance Criteria.-Diamond TV