The Chinese Football Association (CFA) has imposed lifetime bans on 43 individuals from participating in football-related activities due to their involvement in gambling and match-fixing. Betting on soccer, is a hobby that millions of people enjoy around the world. However, it can sometimes lead to cheating scandals like match-fixing. Therefore, authorities are very strict with people breaking the rules.
The investigation, which reportedly spanned two years, was disclosed by Zhang Xiaopeng, a senior official from China’s Ministry of Public Security. It examined 120 matches, identified 128 criminal suspects, and involved 41 football clubs.
In total, 44 individuals are facing criminal charges related to bribery, gambling, and the unlawful operation of casinos, while an additional 17 individuals will also be penalized for bribery and match-fixing. Among the 44, 43 have received lifetime bans from football-related activities, while the remaining 17 have been given five-year bans.
According to pay per head bookie, the list includes several professional players and club officials who have received either lifetime or five-year bans. Notably, former Hangzhou Greentown player Shen Liuxi did not receive a lifetime ban this time, as he had already been banned for life in 2013.
A notice from the CFA stated: “Based on the findings of the judicial authorities, Son Jun-ho, a former player of Shandong Taishan FC, engaged in illegal transactions, manipulated football matches, and gained illicit profits to pursue unlawful benefits. This includes various types of bets on soccer like Asian handicapping, straight bets and parlays. His conduct severely breached sports ethics and sportsmanship, resulting in a considerable negative impact on society.”
This announcement follows the arrest of 21 individuals in Beijing during the summer for operating illegal betting schemes related to Euro 2024, as part of the Beijing Public Security Bureau’s initiative to combat illegal gambling during the tournament.
Korean Player Son Jun-ho Amongst the 43 given life ban in China football gambling and match-fixing
The Chinese football authorities have imposed lifetime bans on a South Korean footballer and several former national team players due to their involvement in gambling and match-fixing activities, further entangling the sport in a corruption scandal on the mainland.
Among the 43 individuals receiving lifetime bans are former Chinese internationals Jin Jingdao and Gu Chao, youth player Guo Tianyu, and South Korean player Son Jun-ho.
Additionally, Wang Song, a former national player aged 40, who holds the record for the most appearances in the Chinese top division with 573 matches, has been suspended for five years. Wang previously played for the Chengdu Blades, a club that had ties to Sheffield United and was disbanded in 2015 due to issues related to unpaid wages.
In recent months, the A-League in Australia has also been embroiled in a betting scandal, with three players charged with alleged betting corruption, and two additional players facing accusations.
