FIFA statutes bar Magwizi from accepting US$250,000 Range Rover from Chivayo

HARARE – Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president Nqobile Magwizi is unlikely to accept a luxury vehicle offered by businessman Wicknell Chivayo, with FIFA ethics regulations cited as the main reason according to a report by Zimpapers Sports Hub.

Sources say the gift would breach Article 21 of the FIFA Code of Ethics (2023), which bars officials from accepting gifts of more than symbolic value, particularly from individuals with direct interests in football.

Chivayo sponsors Premier Soccer League clubs Scottland and Highlanders.

The vehicle — a 2026 Range Rover Sport D350 Autobiography Limited Edition valued at about US$250,000 — is considered far beyond what FIFA regulations allow.

While Magwizi reportedly appreciates Chivayo’s support for local football, insiders said accepting the gift would risk non-compliance with FIFA rules.

Chivayo has emerged as a major benefactor to Zimbabwean football, supporting the national team as well as Scottland and Highlanders, and recently handed over a luxury bus to Highlanders.

FIFA has previously enforced similar rules. In 2014, officials were ordered to return luxury watches distributed during the Brazil World Cup after they were ruled to breach ethics provisions.