ZIFA suspends three match officials over code of conduct breaches

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has suspended three match officials from officiating in Premier Soccer League fixtures following breaches of the Referees Code of Conduct related to the interpretation, application and implementation of the Laws of the Game.

In an official statement issued by its Media and Communications Department, ZIFA announced that referees Lloyd Mapanje and Venancio Zulu, along with assistant referee Muroiwa Wirimai, have all been sanctioned after reviews of their performances in recent league matches.

Referee Venancio Zulu has been handed a five-match suspension, effective from Matchday 10 through to Matchday 14, following his performance during the Bulawayo Chiefs versus Chicken Inn FC fixture played at Barbourfields Stadium on April 25, 2026.

Assistant referee Muroiwa Wirimai has received a six-match suspension, ruling him out from Matchday 10 to Matchday 15, after his officiating in the MWOS FC against Scotland FC match held at Ngoni Stadium on April 25, 2026.

Meanwhile, referee Lloyd Mapanje has also been suspended for six matchdays, from Matchday 11 to Matchday 16, following his performance during the Scotland FC versus Simba Bhora FC encounter at Rufaro Stadium on May 3, 2026.

ZIFA said the disciplinary measures are part of ongoing efforts to uphold refereeing standards and preserve the integrity of domestic football competitions.

“The suspensions arise from breaches of the Referees Code of Conduct relating to the interpretation, application and implementation of the Laws of the Game,” the association said in its statement.

The governing body reiterated its commitment to strengthening officiating standards across Zimbabwean football, emphasizing the need for professionalism, competence and accountability among match officials.

ZIFA added that ensuring the highest standards of refereeing remains essential in protecting the credibility and fairness of Premier Soccer League competitions.