With the Zambian Super League 2024/25 season set to kick off in less than two weeks, clubs have been warned by the Zambian Premier League (ZPL) to avoid superstitious practices or face fines.

ZPL Chief Executive Officer Joseph Chimpampwe emphasized that any team found engaging in actions such as climbing fences, avoiding dressing rooms, or shunning stadiums due to witchcraft allegations will be penalized.

“One of the issues we have been interested in is the disciplinary issues we had last season, with very unwarranted actions, such as teams entering in reverse and climbing wall fences,” Chimpampwe told ZNBC sports.

Last season, several incidents were reported, including teams avoiding dressing rooms, jumping fences, and entering stadium premises in reverse gear—practices widely viewed as petty and backward.

“We are going to be very strict, and the charges will be very punitive, mostly financially,” Chimpampwe warned.

As the new season approaches, the ZPL is determined to put an end to such behavior.

Chimpampwe revealed that preparations are progressing well, with the curtain-raiser, the Charity Shield, set to take place this weekend on the Copperbelt. The match will feature Champions Red Arrows against ABSA Cup finalists Kabwe Warriors at Ndola’s Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

The Zambian Super League, both men’s and women’s, is expected to start next week, along with the Men’s National Division. The Women’s National Division One will commence at a later date.