FIFA Investigates Allegations of 'Misconduct' Against Zambia Women's Football Coach

The International Football Federation (FIFA) confirmed on Friday that it is investigating allegations of 'misconduct' during the Zambia women's national football team's camp at the Women's World Cup. The Guardian reported on Thursday that Bruce Mwape, the coach of Zambia, has been accused of rubbing his hands on one of his players' breasts two days before their final group match against Costa Rica. Zambia, which participated in the World Cup for the first time, won a ceremonial match against Costa Rica but was eliminated from the tournament after two previous losses to Japan and Spain in the group stage. A FIFA spokesperson told ESPN that 'FIFA takes any allegations of misconduct very seriously and has a specific process for anyone wishing to report an incident.' He confirmed that investigations into misconduct during Zambia's camp are ongoing but could not provide further details about the case. The spokesperson added, 'Anyone wishing to report allegations or information related to misconduct in football can do so through FIFA's reporting platform, and all information sent to FIFA will be treated confidentially.' He stated, 'Additionally, FIFA ensures the safety of those who report cases, including witnesses who participate in FIFA's ethical cases and testify. When an individual's guilt is proven, FIFA imposes the strictest possible penalties, including lifetime bans from football; our history shows this well.' Zambia's first victory in the World Cup has been overshadowed by allegations against Bruce Mwape, who has been coaching Zambia since 2018. The pre-match press conference before their game against Spain ended quickly due to ongoing questions about past investigations into misconduct in Zambia's women's football. The Football Association of Zambia referred investigations into allegations of 'sexual abuse' to FIFA last September. The Guardian reported in July that Bruce Mwape was one of the individuals being questioned. After the Guardian article was published, in which an anonymous player said, 'If Mwape wants to sleep with someone, you have to accept it,' the Football Association of Zimbabwe referred to a statement made in September. Although the allegations against the Zimbabwean coach received widespread media coverage, the players of this team made history at the Australia and New Zealand World Cup. They achieved the first victory in the history of Zimbabwean football in the World Cup for both men and women by defeating Costa Rica.