The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has suspended five match officials after reviewing several controversial decisions. The association found that the mistakes influenced results in both the Premier Soccer League and regional competitions.
ZIFA announced the disciplinary action on Tuesday. The football body said it reached the decision after studying reports submitted by match commissioners.
Furthermore, the suspensions were issued under Article 22 of the ZIFA Referees Code of Conduct.
Five officials receive six-match bans
Assistant referee Phikisani Ndlovu received a six-match suspension in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League. His ban runs from Matchday 21 to Matchday 26.
The punishment followed the FC Platinum and Hunters FC match. The fixture took place at Mandava Stadium on 27 June 2026.
Meanwhile, referee Chamunorwa Tapiwa also received a six-match suspension. He will miss Northern Region Soccer League fixtures from Matchday 17 to Matchday 22.
His suspension followed the Marere FC and Zambezi G & C FC clash. The match was played at Centenary Ground on 21 June 2026.
Assistant referee Christian Gumbeze was also punished. He received the same six-match suspension after officiating the same fixture.
ZIFA explains disciplinary action
In the Southern Region Soccer League, referee Graduate Mubobo was also suspended for six matches. His ban covers Matchdays 16 to 21.
The sanction relates to a match played at Chinotimba Stadium on 24 June 2026.
Assistant referee Praise Mkwevo also received a six-match suspension. His punishment covers the same period after working on the same fixture.
ZIFA said each official made errors that significantly influenced the outcome of their respective matches.
“The sanctions relate to incorrect officiating decisions considered to have materially affected the outcomes of the respective matches, in breach of Article 22 of the ZIFA Referees Code of Conduct,” the association said.
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