ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi is reportedly unlikely to accept a car gift offered by businessman Wicknell Chivayo as appreciation for his first year in office, amid concerns over FIFA regulations governing ethics and conflicts of interest.
According to reports, Magwizi’s position is influenced by FIFA statutes, particularly given Chivayo’s direct sponsorship links with Premier Soccer League sides Scottland and Highlanders. These ties place the ZIFA president in a sensitive position, as FIFA rules restrict football officials from accepting gifts from individuals with vested interests in football institutions or competitions.
Article 21 of the FIFA Code of Ethics (2023) clearly states that individuals bound by the code may only offer or accept gifts or benefits that are symbolic or of trivial value. The regulation prohibits the exchange of improper advantages and seeks to safeguard transparency and integrity within football governance structures.
With Chivayo actively involved in sponsoring PSL clubs, any substantial gift — such as a vehicle — could be viewed as exceeding what FIFA considers symbolic or trivial. As a result, Magwizi is understood to be exercising caution to remain compliant with international football regulations and to avoid potential disciplinary complications.
The development highlights the increasing scrutiny around football administration in Zimbabwe and the importance of adhering to global governance standards. While the gesture may have been framed as appreciation for leadership, FIFA’s ethical framework leaves little room for ambiguity when it comes to gifts linked to stakeholders within the football ecosystem.
ZIFA has not yet issued an official statement on the matter.
