By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
HARARE, Zimbabwe – Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo has gifted Scottland FC an impressive fleet of 20 cars and pledged a total of US$1.6 million after the team secured promotion to the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
The recent surge of excitement began last week when Scottland FC defeated Black Mambas with a decisive 3-0 victory in the final match of the Northern Region Soccer League, effectively solidifying their place in Zimbabwe’s top tier of football. Weeks prior, Chivayo had made headlines with his promise to reward the team with Toyota Aqua vehicles should they emerge victorious against Herentals, and he vowed to shower them with US$1 million as a bonus for their PSL promotion.
Scottland FC’s road to the PSL was marked by some controversy. Their match against Karoi FC on September 15, 2024, ended abruptly when referee Mathew Dingo was allegedly struck by a missile thrown by disgruntled Karoi United fans. Following league regulations, the Northern Region Soccer League awarded the match to Scottland with a 3-0 scoreline, a pivotal moment that helped elevate them to the PSL.
Upon their promotion, Chivayo took to social media to celebrate the club’s achievement and fulfill his pledges. He wrote, “Following my pledge to support Scottland FC, I am thrilled to congratulate the team and Hon. Scott Sakupwanya on their incredible win against MWOS, securing a place in the Premier Soccer League. True to my word, I have since delivered 20 Toyota Aquas to the team to boost morale and reward their pursuit of excellence.”
In a move that further showcased his commitment to supporting the club’s future success, Chivayo announced, “I will gladly go ahead and honor the USD 1 MILLION pledge I made to the club as a token in recognition of their relentless dedication and commitment that saw them rise to the top of the Northern Region Soccer League table.” He also expressed his optimism for Scottland FC’s future, pledging an additional US$600,000 to enhance the team’s preparations for the upcoming PSL season.