Patrice Beaumelle quit as Zambia coach

The Football Association of Zambia wishes to officially announce that Mr. Patrice Beaumelle has decided not to exercise his right to renew his contract with the Association following its expiry on 31st July, 2014.

Beaumelle who until recently had been acting as Head Coach for the Zambia National Team following the departure of Herve Renard leaves Zambia after five years of commitment, dedication and hardwork which during both coaches tenure saw the Zambia National Team lift the Africa Cup of Nations trophy for the first time in February, 2012 in Libreville, Gabon. 

FAZ President Kalusha Bwalya thanked Beaumelle for his tireless dedication to duty and for showing commitment to the country especially since the departure of Renard. 

In his letter dated 3rd August, 2014 addressed to the FAZ President Beaumelle thanked the Association for showing confidence in his abilities. 

“From the outset, let me express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity you gave me to serve as coach of the Zambia National Football Team; a position I served with honour, to the best of my ability and thoroughly enjoyed through the many games and championships we competed in. 

“As I leave the Chipolopolo, I wish once again, to offer my deepest gratitude to you Mr President and through you to the Patron of FAZ, the Minister of Sports and FAZ partners who worked with us, staff of the Football Association of Zambia and Zambia national team, the players and people of Zambia who are very passionate about their game and supported me throughout the last one year. 

“I wish you well for the future and believe that with your leadership, FAZ and Zambian football will continue to soar to greater heights and attain many more glorious days. 

“Working with the Chipolopolo, the various junior teams including Women National Team which qualified to its maiden African championship has been a real pleasure. The journey was exciting and challenging and had many good and difficult situations but I take with me the good memories.” Beaumelle said. 

FAZ expects that the current Zambia National Team technical bench to continue in the interim.