The 2025 Absa Cup has been significantly boosted with increased prize money for the champions and runners-up, along with a new tournament format aimed at broadening participation and increasing excitement for the competition.
Absa Bank Zambia PLC Managing Director Mizinga Melu announced an increase in total tournament sponsorship for the 2025 Absa Cup, raising it to K6.5 million, up from K5.5 million in 2024.
This year, the champions will receive K1,000,000, a significant rise from the K800,000 awarded to last year’s winners. The runners-up will also see an increase in their prize, now set to receive K400,000, up from K350,000 in 2024.
Additionally, the travel subsidy for participating teams has been raised to K50,000, with adjustments based on the geographical distance of the teams. Teams traveling longer distances will be eligible for the full subsidy.
For the second time in the tournament’s history, the 2025 Absa Cup will feature 21 teams. Following a format revamp approved by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) and Absa Bank Zambia PLC last year, the competition will now consist of 10 provincial teams, seven MTN Super League teams, and four ZPL National League teams. This expanded format is expected to add greater depth and excitement to the tournament.
The preliminary round for this year’s ABSA will be played on March 15th to 16th. The tournament will then progress to the Round of 16, where teams will compete for a place in the quarterfinals on 5th and 6th April.
