FORGET ABOUT NORA: GOVERNMENT TAKES HARDLINE ON DUAL CONTRACTS

06.05.2026 | Football DNA

Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu has indicated that government will not tolerate Nora Häuptle continuing as head coach of the Zambia women's national football team if she is found to be holding two contracts simultaneously.

Nkandu stated that the government, which contributes approximately 40 percent of the coach’s salary, expects full commitment and clarity regarding her contractual obligations.

“We will not tolerate her. We cannot have a coach with two contracts… if it is true that Coach Nora has signed another contract somewhere, then we should forget about her and start looking for another coach,” Nkandu said.

The minister was reacting to Häuptle’s reported appointment as a UEFA Women’s Player Development Expert while still under contract with the Football Association of Zambia.

The development comes amid escalating tensions between the coach and FAZ, with Häuptle reportedly referring the matter to FIFA, citing constructive dismissal after requesting to work remotely.

Nkandu has since called on FAZ to provide a detailed report on the situation, maintaining that the government’s position remains firm.

“Government will not tolerate a coach having two contracts at the same time,” he reiterated.

The minister made the remarks during an appearance on ZNBC Radio 4’s Talking Football programme on Sunday, signaling a potentially decisive turn in the ongoing standoff.