ABSA Bank has officially rolled out the 2026 ABSA Cup, offering winners a prize of K1.1 million while the runners-up will pocket K450,000. The tournament remains the country’s lone surviving cup competition, and FAZ president Keith Mweemba has praised ABSA for its unwavering 19-year sponsorship. A total of 21 teams will compete for honours, reflecting the depth of football talent across Zambia. During the launch, Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu encouraged ABSA Bank to extend logistical support to the winner, who will represent Zambia in the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup. This gesture, he noted, would ensure that national representation is well-supported and competitive on the continental stage. The tournament is set to boost both local football development and fan engagement nationwide.
ABSA Bank Managing Director Mizinga Melu highlighted that the 2026 ABSA Cup budget has risen to K7 million, up from K6 million last year, making it the bank’s largest sports sponsorship to date. She emphasised the pride associated with having the cup winner represent Zambia at CAF competitions, framing the event as a key milestone for both the bank and national football. Individual awards for Player of the Tournament, Golden Boot, and Golden Glove will each carry K25,000, sponsored by Spectra. Additionally, the Player of the Tournament award, sponsored by Big Tree, will provide K5,000 from the preliminary round to the round of 16 and K15,000 from the quarterfinals to the finals. These incentives are designed to motivate players while showcasing emerging talent from all regions of the country.
The launch also confirmed SuperSport as the official broadcast partner for the 2026 ABSA Cup, with live streaming available on the ABSA Bank Facebook page. FAZ president Keith Mweemba reiterated his gratitude to ABSA Bank, describing the 19-year partnership as unprecedented in Zambian football. He also thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for attending every ABSA Cup final since assuming office in 2021, highlighting the government’s visible support for the sport. Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu acknowledged ABSA’s provision of travel grants for teams traveling long distances, ensuring equitable participation from all regions. This support demonstrates a shared commitment to inclusivity, allowing talent from remote provinces to compete on a national platform.
The tournament will kick off on March 21 in Kabwe with preliminary matches featuring teams from across Zambia. North Western envoys Mushitala Stars will face Teta FC from Northern Province, while Central side Forest Myooye takes on Barotse Crocs. Other fixtures include Nampundwe versus Mikalile, Mathkat United against Play It Forward, and Zambezi Portland versus Real Nakonde, completing the preliminary round schedule. The round of 16 will see established teams such as Chirundu United, Kabwe Warriors, Zanaco, Roan United, and Nchanga Rangers entering the competition alongside preliminary round winners. Prominent clubs like Red Arrows, Makeni All Stars, Power Dynamos, and Mufulira Wanderers await qualification to join the later stages, ensuring high-level competition throughout the tournament.
The 2026 ABSA Cup represents a major milestone in Zambian football, combining significant financial incentives with nationwide participation. ABSA Bank’s long-term support underscores the value of private sector investment in sports development. By linking the cup to continental competitions, the tournament elevates local talent to an international platform. The commitment to digital broadcasting and travel support ensures broader access and inclusivity, allowing fans and players from all provinces to engage fully. With the tournament’s launch, Zambia’s football ecosystem stands poised for growth, professionalisation, and sustained competitive excellence.