FIFA is investigating Zambia manager Bruce Mwape after he was accused of stroking a player’s chest at the Women’s World Cup.
A complaint was filed against the 63-year-old after the African nation achieved their first-ever World Cup triumph with a 3-1 success over Costa Rica on Monday (July 31).
According to The Guardian, the alleged incident occurred last Friday (July 28) after a training session. According to a squad insider, multiple players noticed Mwape rubbing his hands across the chest of one of their teammates.
Those who witnessed the incident were alleged to have pondered reporting it immediately but waited until after their campaign was over for fear of being disqualified, as Zambia had already been eliminated after consecutive 5-0 defeats to Japan and Spain.
Mwape was also accused of sexual misbehavior before the event started in Australia and New Zealand, which he denied.
Last month, an unidentified player told The Guardian, “If he [Mwape] wants to sleep with someone, you have to say yes.” It’s common for the coach to sleep with our team’s players.”
He was questioned about the earlier charges ahead of Zambia’s second group game, but a FIFA media officer stepped in and stated, “I’ll ask you to restrict the questions to football and the tournament only.”
“FIFA takes any allegation of misconduct extremely seriously and has a clear process in place for anyone in football who wants to report an incident,” a spokeswoman said of the fresh claim.
“We can confirm that a complaint regarding the Zambian women’s national team has been received and is being investigated.” We are unable to share additional information on an ongoing inquiry due to clear confidentiality concerns.
“Anyone who wishes to report allegations or information related to abuse in football may do so through FIFA’s confidential reporting platform, with all information submitted to FIFA treated in strict confidence.”
“In addition, FIFA provides assistance and support to ensure the safety of those who report a safeguarding issue, including witnesses who come forward and testify in FIFA judicial cases.”
“When guilt is established, FIFA imposes the harshest sanctions possible, including lifetime bans from the game.” This is supported by our track record.”