Brazilian Authorities Launch Investigation into Soccer Match-Fixing
File photo. Samba Queens Win Equal Pay. The Brazilian women’s soccer team have been the most successful in South America.
Investigation Launched into Match-Fixing Allegations
Brazilian authorities have launched a federal investigation into soccer match-fixing, the country’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security announced in a statement on Wednesday. “The measure was taken this Wednesday after the disclosure that athletes from main division clubs of Brazilian soccer were suspected of collaborating with gangs that would act through sports betting,” the statement read.
Allegations of Match-Fixing
This comes a day after the state of Goias accused 16 people of manipulating the results of 13 soccer matches in Brazil’s Serie A and Serie B, as well as the state championship in 2022 and 2023. According to the Goias Public Prosecutor’s office, one player was given $100,000 (500.000,00 Brazilian Reais) for a red card with $10,000 (40.000 Brazilian Reais) paid to him before the game.
Investigation and Consequences
As a result of the investigation, some Brazilian soccer clubs have reportedly suspended some of their players pre-emptively. CNN has reached out to the Brazilian Football Confederation for comment. The Colorado Rapids, a Major League Soccer club in the United States, confirmed that one of their players is connected to the Brazilian match-fixing scandal.
Integrity of the Game
“We are aware of the reports regarding a Colorado Rapids player in connection with unlawful sports gambling,” the club said without naming the player. “We take matters of this nature seriously and seek at all times to protect the integrity of the game. The player has been removed from all team activities while MLS conducts an investigation into the matter.” MLS also said one former player was involved in “unlawful sports gambling,” in a statement released on Wednesday.
Conclusion
The integrity of the game is critical to the league, and MLS takes seriously these allegations and any contravention of the league’s integrity rule. The current player has been removed from team activities pending an investigation into this matter, which will begin promptly.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the investigation?
A: The investigation is aimed at uncovering evidence of match-fixing in Brazilian soccer and identifying those responsible.
Q: How many people have been accused of match-fixing?
A: According to the Goias Public Prosecutor’s office, 16 people have been accused of manipulating the results of 13 soccer matches.
Q: What are the consequences for those found guilty of match-fixing?
A: The consequences for those found guilty of match-fixing can include suspension or termination from the sport, as well as criminal charges.