Three referees suspended over substandard performa...

Three referees suspended over substandard performances

Witness Runodada Zim Now reporter

ZIFA has taken disciplinary action against three match officials following the substandard performances in recent PSL fixtures.

ZIFA confirmed the suspension of two referees and one assistant referee for failing to meet expected officiating standards.

Referee Lloyd Mapanje has been suspended from officiating Premier League matches from matchday 17 to matchday 20. The decision comes after his performance during the Dynamos versus Yadah encounter at Rufaro Stadium on 19 June 2025 was flagged by the Match Commissioner.

ZIFA also confirmed the suspension of referee Grace Gimo for matches between matchday 16 and matchday 19. Her performance in the Green Fuel versus TelOne match played on 14 June 2025 at Green Fuel Arena was assessed as below the required standard.

Assistant referee Claris Simango was also handed a suspension from matchday 17 to matchday 20 for her role during the same Dynamos versus Yadah match on 19 June. The Match Commissioner assessed her officiating as falling short of expectations.

“ZIFA remains committed to upholding professionalism, integrity and high officiating standards in the local game,” the association said. “These suspensions have been issued in line with paragraph 21 of the Referees Code of Conduct.”

ZIFA emphasised the importance of match officials in preserving the credibility of the sport and called on referees and assistant referees to demonstrate fairness and competence in their duties.

“The Association reiterates its expectation that all referees and assistant referees consistently demonstrate fairness, competence and professionalism,” the statement read. “We are committed to ensuring accountability while providing continuous support and development opportunities for our referees through training, evaluation and mentoring programmes.”