Brian Banda: Zimbabwean Football Star Dies in Tragic Car Accident
- A Zimbabwean footballer has sadly lost his life in a devastating car accident and tributes keep pouring in from the African football world
- His club has issued a poignant message while highlighting his major contributions to the club he loved so much
- The player's family has requested privacy during this challenging time, as funeral arrangements have not yet been disclosed
The Zimbabwean football community is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a talented Zimbabwe international midfielder.
Per reports, the player tragically lost his life in a fatal car accident on Sunday, June 29, 2025, on the Zvishavane-Bulawayo highway.
Source: Twitter
FC Platinum announces death of Brian Banda
FC Platinum, one of Zimbabwe’s top Premier Soccer League clubs, has confirmed the passing of their player, Brian Banda.
The 29-year-old midfielder was traveling with two other individuals when their vehicle was involved in a fatal crash. Sadly, all three occupants were declared dead at the scene.
The accident occurred near Zvishavane, a mining town in the Midlands Province. According to Kick Off, details surrounding the cause of the accident remain under investigation.
Who was Brian Banda?
Brian Banda was a gifted footballer started his professional career with Highlanders FC where he quickly rose to prominence as one of the team's most important players.
His performances caught the attention of national selectors, earning him nine appearances for the Zimbabwe national team, according to Transfermarkt.
Banda later made a successful move to FC Platinum, where he became an integral part of the midfield and was later named captain.
Source: Twitter
Known for his creativity and technical ability, he was instrumental in FC Platinum’s campaigns in the Premier Soccer League and continental competitions.
Banda’s final act of kindness
Hours before his tragic death, Brian Banda spent his afternoon at FC Platinum’s academy training grounds.
Coaches revealed he arrived unannounced, watching the under-17 team train and pulling aside individual players to offer personal tips.
One academy player said Banda promised to buy him new boots next week after noticing his torn pair. The midfielder was known for such quiet acts of generosity, never posting them online.
Staff shared that Banda often paid school fees for young players and spoke about setting up a scholarship fund for talented boys from rural areas. His humility and care for others made him a role model far beyond his football skills, and his death has left many youth devastated.
FC Platinum pays emotional tribute to Brian Banda
In a heartfelt statement, FC Platinum expressed profound sorrow at the passing of one of their most cherished players.
The club described Banda not only as an exceptional footballer but also as a remarkable human being whose positivity and passion inspired both teammates and supporters.
“Brian was more than just a player to us,” the statement read. “His dedication, humility, and infectious spirit made him a beloved figure at our club. His absence will leave a void that can never truly be filled.”
Tributes have also been flooding in from fellow players, coaches, fans, and football organizations across Zimbabwe and the region.
Highlanders FC, Banda’s former club, shared their condolences on social media, remembering him as a true son of the club and a player who gave his all every time he wore their jersey.
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) also released a statement acknowledging Banda’s contributions to the national team, highlighting his commitment and passion every time he represented the country.
''The Zimbabwe Football Association is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Brian Banda, captain of FC Platinum, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a car accident.''
Meanwhile, his club, FC Platinum, has called for respect for the family’s privacy during this difficult period as Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
Platinum plans emotional farewell for Banda
Following his sudden death, FC Platinum has suspended training sessions and is planning a candlelight vigil at Mandava Stadium, where fans and teammates will gather to honour the inspiring life and leadership of their cherished captain, whose kindness and commitment touched everyone around him.
Ousmane Diaby passes away in France
YEN.com.gh earlier reported on the passing of another talented African player, Ousmane Diaby, whose sad demise happened in France in May of this year.
The 14-year-old died after he collapsed in a lower-tier match involving his club AS Jeunesse Aubervilliers in Dijon.
Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
