The Zambian government has suspended financial support to the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) for the senior men’s national team, the Chipolopolo, due to poor performance in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The decision was announced by the National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) following a directive from the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis C. Nkandu.

According to NSCZ Director and CEO Sombwa Musunsa, the government’s expenditure on the team has become difficult to justify given the results. “Transparency and accountability in the use of public funds are paramount,” Musunsa emphasised. The suspension will remain in effect until FAZ provides a clear roadmap for restoring Zambian men’s football.

The Chipolopolo have had a tough World Cup qualifying campaign, winning only two matches, losing four, and collecting six points in Group E. This has left Zambia’s hopes of qualification hanging by a thread. Football administrator and analyst Gift Chibale expressed disappointment at the team’s decline, describing the suspension as “a wake-up call for serious reform.”

Chibale added that the team’s inconsistency and lack of results have frustrated fans, and FAZ must rebuild confidence through clear planning and development. He also lamented the drop in performance of top striker Patson Daka and midfielder Emmanuel Banda, urging Daka to regain his confidence by scoring goals.

The government has assured that outstanding arrears owed to both men’s and women’s team coaches will still be settled. However, other sports bodies have been warned to meet performance standards or risk similar action. FAZ has until October 20, 2025, to respond before the government determines the way forward for the national team.