Chivayo withholds US$250,000 Warriors bonus

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

Chivayo made the pledge in January, saying the money was intended to motivate the Warriors during their AFCON campaign, despite the team failing to advance beyond the group stages of the tournament.

However, he has now revealed that the funds will not be disbursed for the time being, citing an ongoing FIFA investigation into alleged match-fixing linked to Zimbabwe's final Group B match against South Africa. The Warriors lost the encounter 3–2 after conceding two late goals that have since been described as suspicious, prompting the submission of a 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 added that the money would not be diverted elsewhere, stressing that it remains reserved for football development. "The funds shall remain earmarked exclusively for football development purposes, regardless of the outcome," he said.

In the same announcement, Chivayo disclosed that he had purchased a US$250,000 Range Rover Sport D350 Autobiography for ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi. He said the gesture was in recognition of what he described as early reforms and a renewed commitment to transparency and good governance at the football association.

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 to Zimbabwean football, last year also pledged to buy Toyota Aqua vehicles for members of the ZIFA electorate if Magwizi won the presidential election. That promise, however, is yet to be fulfilled.

The developments have sparked renewed debate around governance, integrity and private influence in Zimbabwean football, particularly at a time when the sport is under international scrutiny.