Magwizi Rejects Chivayo’s US$250k Range Rover Gift Amid FIFA Ethics Fears

ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi has reportedly declined a lavish US$250,000 Range Rover Sport D350 Autobiography offered to him by businessman and football benefactor Wicknell Chivayo a move aimed at staying on the right side of FIFA’s strict ethics code.

Chivayo, who bankrolls Highlanders and Scottland FC, presented the luxury vehicle as a token of appreciation for Magwizi’s leadership over the past year.

But the gesture immediately raised red flags.

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Under FIFA regulations, football officials are barred from accepting expensive gifts that could compromise their independence.

With Chivayo actively involved in club sponsorship, Magwizi accepting the vehicle would have placed him in a potential conflict of interest especially in cases involving club disputes or refereeing decisions overseen by ZIFA.

Football governance experts say such situations have previously triggered severe sanctions.

Former CAF president Ahmad once received a five-year ban for ethics breaches involving gifts and influence.

Sources say Magwizi expressed gratitude but made it clear he could not jeopardise his position or violate FIFA rules.