Brighton Chimene has achieved a historic milestone for Zimbabwean football officiating. The 35-year-old referee from Rusape received appointment to the 2025 African Nations Championship from the Confederation of African Football. Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will jointly host the tournament from August 2 through 30. Chimene becomes Zimbabwe's first official selected for the Chan competition. The appointment places him among 75 elite referees chosen for the continental event.
This selection marks Zimbabwe's return to major tournament officiating after a 17-year gap. Kenny Marange last represented the country at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations. Chimene earned promotion to FIFA's Elite B panel earlier this year, positioning him one level below World Cup eligibility. His recent assignments have featured World Cup qualifiers, CAF Champions League matches and regional competitions. The four-time Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League Referee of the Year has established himself as the nation's top-ranked match official.
The Chan tournament exclusively features players from domestic leagues across Africa. Chimene officiated at the Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations three months ago, demonstrating his growing continental presence. His consistent performance and professional approach have earned recognition throughout African football circles. The Zimbabwe Football Association celebrated the appointment as a landmark achievement for local officiating standards.
This selection marks Zimbabwe's return to major tournament officiating after a 17-year gap. Kenny Marange last represented the country at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations. Chimene earned promotion to FIFA's Elite B panel earlier this year, positioning him one level below World Cup eligibility. His recent assignments have featured World Cup qualifiers, CAF Champions League matches and regional competitions. The four-time Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League Referee of the Year has established himself as the nation's top-ranked match official.
The Chan tournament exclusively features players from domestic leagues across Africa. Chimene officiated at the Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations three months ago, demonstrating his growing continental presence. His consistent performance and professional approach have earned recognition throughout African football circles. The Zimbabwe Football Association celebrated the appointment as a landmark achievement for local officiating standards.
