Maningi Queens FC quits Women’s Premier Soccer League over alleged FIFA grant fraud

By Sports Reporter

Maningi Queens FC has pulled out of the Zimbabwe Women’s Premier Soccer League (ZWPSL), citing alleged fraud involving FIFA and CAF women’s football grants.

NewZimbabwe.com has it on good authority that the club, on September 15, formally wrote to the league executive notifying them of its decision to withdraw.

In its letter, the club raised several grievances, including the diversion of FIFA and CAF grants meant for women’s football to men’s football activities, lack of legal action on player development and training compensation by bigger teams that poach players, as well as unaffordable referees’ fees in a league with no sponsorship.

The club further alleged that ZIFA administrators were being bribed to corruptly clear players for bigger clubs at the expense of teams investing in development.

Confirming the withdrawal Tuesday evening, the ZWPSL applauded Maningi Queens for their significant contribution to the growth of women’s football despite their decision to exit.

“The league acknowledges the concerns raised by the club and respects their decision to withdraw.

“The ZWPSL extends its heartfelt gratitude to Maningi Youth Soccer Academy for their substantial contributions to the advancement of women’s soccer.

“ZWPSL remains committed to promoting a competitive and vibrant women’s game and looks forward to continuing to work with stakeholders to advance women’s football in Zimbabwe,” read part of the statement.