FIFA President Infantino gives thumbs up to Zimbabwe mega Cup

By panafricafootball.com

The trailblazing launch of a multimillion-dollar knockout cup competition in Zimbabwe has not escaped the attention of FIFA.

Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa launched the ZIFA Munhumutapa Challenge Cup worth a whooping $5 million every year on Tuesday at a glittering ceremony that attracted Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) officials and stakeholders at the Celebration Centre in Borrowdale.

In a reaction, FIFA president Gianni Infantino welcomed the unprecedented cup competition describing it as a huge boost to the Southern African country’s football at all levels, including, beach soccer and for the juniors.

“What a great day for football in your wonderful country,” the FIFA boss said via a recorded video. “The launch of the ZIFA Munhumutapa Challenge Cup is a momentous occasion for our beloved sports.”

The world football controlling chief highlighted the far-reaching impact of such a huge cash injection to Zimbabwe football.

“I congratulate you all on bringing this tremendous and fabulous project to life. With such a strong governmental support, it will give even more momentum to all the teams. The far-reaching impact of this tournament is another that gives me joy,” the FIFA boss added.

Part of the competition’s prize money will be invested towards Zimbabwe’s CAF Confederation Cup representatives.

Speaking during the launch of the cup as quoted by ZIFA website, the Zimbabwe leader said the flagship national knockout competition seeks to reshape the domestic game through unprecedented investment and nationwide inclusion.

“This competition is more than a trophy; it is an investment in our young people, our communities and the future of Zimbabwean sport,” Mnangagwa said. “Let it widen opportunity, strengthen unity, and lift standards across our football ecosystem.”

Know what is at stake in ZIFA Munhumutapa Challenge Cup

The cup is the most lucrative in Zimbabwe and beyond, with the ultimate men’s category champions to pocket $1 million prize money, the highest in Zimbabwe and Africa domestic leagues.

From the prize money, $500,000 will go to the coffers of the men’s championship-winning club and the remainder reserved for its participation in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The CAF Confederation Cup winners’ pocket $4 million and $1 million for runners up while CAF Champions League kings get $6 million and $2 million for the runners up.

Furthermore, $100,000 will go towards juniors’ football development, double the amount for women’s competition, $30,000 for futsal and $20,000 for beach soccer.

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi described the cup competition as the ultimate game change for the country’s football.