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Twine Phiri has vowed to draw from his passion and experience to transform Zimbabwean football.

Phiri vows to revive Zim football, declares: ‘I am in for a fight’

HARARE — Former CAPS United owner Twine Phiri on Saturday announced his candidacy for the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidency, promising to leverage his experience and passion to revitalize football in the country.

The former Premier Soccer League chairman, who bought CAPS United at the age of 27 and led the club to 52 medals and over 12 trophies, said his vision for Zimbabwean football is both bold and ambitious. “Our vision is to elevate football standards, nurture young talent, and foster a culture of excellence and unity within our football community,” he said, addressing journalists at a press conference in Harare. “I don’t want to lie to you, I’m very, very ambitious.”

He promised a manifesto that would focus on grassroots development, corporate sponsorships, and sustainable growth. “We recognize the challenges we face, but with a clear strategy and unwavering dedication, we can overcome them. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant football culture that inspires and unites all of us,” Phiri said.

Phiri, recounted the sacrifices he made during his tenure at CAPS United. “In 2003, I was beaten up at Gwanzura Stadium because I made a football decision to bring in Charles Mhlauri as coach. People were agitated because his previous team had been relegated, but I had seen potential in him. That decision paid off,” he said.

He dismissed rumors about financial incentives linked to his campaign. “Vanhu varikutaura zvakawanda. Some are saying I have been given US$100,000; others are saying imwe mari iri munzira. But nekushaya kwangu mari, let me assure you, I am happy with what I have, and I am here to serve football,” he said.

Phiri also reflected on the personal costs of his commitment to the sport. “My car was once smashed because of decisions I made in football. Our football needs a person who is ready to sacrifice…Rest assured that our plans are comprehensive and focused on sustaining growth and development,” he said.

“We recognize challenges we face, but with a clear strategy and unwavering dedication we can overcome them together. We can build a stronger, more vibrant football culture that inspires and unites all of us,” Phiri added.

The former CAPS United boss said his passion for football had driven him to step up. “What has made me come back to football is the passion. I am here for football. I am not fake,” he said.

With the ZIFA elections scheduled for Jan. 25, Phiri declared his readiness for the task ahead. “I am in, and I am in for a fight,” he said, adding that football has the power to unite the nation.