FIFA freezes funding to FAZ following loss of legal battle to former coach Asanovic

FIFA has suspended its funding to the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) after FAZ lost a legal battle against former coach, Aljosa Asanovic, at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The court ruled in favor of Asanovic, who was owed US$41,000 for his tenure as the Chipolopolo’s head coach from January, 2022.

FAZ General-Secretary, Reuben Kamanga, confirmed on Sunday that CAS upheld the decision of the single judge, who had awarded Asanovic compensation for unlawful dismissal.

Kamanga stated that the reason for dismissing FAZ’s appeal had not yet been disclosed but would be provided in due course, which would guide FAZ’s next steps.

In response to the ruling, FIFA would restrict the development funds allocated to FAZ until the payment was fully made.

Kamanga warned that if FAZ failed to settle the debt on time, FIFA may impose further sanctions, including a potential ban from international tournaments.

Asanovic, who was appointed on January 18, 2022, terminated his contract unilaterally on September 22, 2022.

His departure came after Zambia’s 1-0 loss to Mozambique, which led to their elimination from the African Nations Championship.

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