Dynamos Excluded From CAF Confederation Cup Over FIFA Sanction

By Sports Reporter

HARARE – Dynamos FC have been ruled out of the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup after failing to appear on the list of clubs confirmed for the tournament's preliminary round draw, despite qualifying by winning the 2025 Chibuku Super Cup.

The Harare giants had earned their place in Africa's second-tier inter-club competition through their domestic cup success. However, their omission from the official draw means they will miss continental football for a second consecutive season.

Reports indicate the exclusion stems from an unresolved dispute with former head coach Saul Chaminuka, who is believed to have lodged a complaint with FIFA over unpaid salary arrears amounting to nearly **US$13,000**.

According to reports, Dynamos made efforts to settle part of the outstanding amount before the CAF registration deadline. However, FIFA reportedly required the club to clear the debt in full before lifting the sanction, preventing Dynamos from obtaining the clearance needed to participate in the competition.

Neither CAF nor Dynamos had issued an official statement explaining the omission at the time of publication.

The latest setback follows a similar disappointment last season when Dynamos withdrew from the CAF Confederation Cup after citing financial challenges, despite having qualified for the tournament.

Missing this year's competition is expected to have significant sporting and financial implications for the Glamour Boys. In addition to losing the opportunity to compete against some of Africa's top clubs, Dynamos are also set to forfeit the financial rewards associated with continental participation, including a preliminary-round participation package estimated at around **US$100,000**.

CAF has already confirmed the clubs that will take part in the preliminary round draw, with Dynamos' absence reducing Zimbabwe's representation in this season's CAF Confederation Cup.