Chivayo Withholds US$250,000 Warriors Bonus Amid Match-Fixing Allegations

By Staff Reporter

Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo has announced that he is temporarily withholding his pledged US$250,000 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) bonus for the Zimbabwe national football team, the Warriors, following allegations of match-fixing.

Chivayo had initially pledged the funds in January, intending them as motivation for the Warriors during their AFCON campaign, despite the team failing to progress beyond the group stages.

However, in light of an ongoing FIFA investigation into alleged match-fixing in Zimbabwe’s final Group B match against South Africa, Chivayo revealed that the bonus would not be disbursed for now. Zimbabwe lost the match 3–2 after conceding two late goals that have been deemed suspicious, prompting a formal petition to FIFA against the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA).

“Upon learning of a petition submitted to FIFA alleging match-fixing, I felt it prudent to temporarily withhold disbursement pending the results of the formal inquiry,” Chivayo said.

He emphasized that the funds remain dedicated to football development and will not be redirected elsewhere, stating, “The funds shall remain earmarked exclusively for football development purposes, regardless of the outcome.”

In a separate announcement, Chivayo also disclosed that he had purchased a US$250,000 Range Rover Sport D350 Autobiography for ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi, in recognition of the association’s early reforms and renewed commitment to transparency and good governance. Magwizi marked one year in office last week, having been elected ZIFA president on January 25, 2024.

“In appreciation of your excellent service, I am pleased to say a big congratulations to you, President Magwizi,” Chivayo wrote. “Please go and see Victor at Exquisite Car Dealership and collect your brand new 2026 Range Rover Sport D350 Autobiography Limited Edition. US$250,000 has been paid in full, and your beautiful car is ready for collection.”

Chivayo, who has positioned himself as a major benefactor of Zimbabwean football, had also pledged last year to buy Toyota Aqua vehicles for ZIFA electorate members if Magwizi won the presidential election—a promise that remains unfulfilled.

These developments have reignited discussions around governance, integrity, and the influence of private benefactors in Zimbabwean football, particularly as the sport faces increased international scrutiny.

Source: NewZimbabwe