Published Friday, 09 August 2024.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that Algerian tennis player Mohamed Ali Abibsi has been suspended for a period of two years and six months and fined $10,000 for breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Abibsi, who held a career-high world singles ranking of 1438 in 2023, was charged with failure to comply with a demand and failure to co-operate with an ITIA investigation. A hearing was held before independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Ian Mill KC on 25 January 2024, following which AHO Mill upheld both ITIA charges. A further hearing was held on 14 March 2024, where both parties made their cases on the appropriate sanction.
Having found Abibsi liable for breaches of the TACP related to failure to co-operate with an ITIA investigation, including refusal to submit personal devices for examination when issued a written request to do so by ITIA investigators, AHO Mill imposed a two-year and six-month suspension and a fine of $10,000.
Abibsi has been provisionally suspended since 19 May 2023, and time served under provisional suspension will be credited against the period of ineligibility. As such, the suspension will end at midnight of 18 November 2025.
During the period of ineligibility, the player is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
To access the full decision, click here.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Italian tennis player Emanuele Bastia has been suspended for a period of four months and two weeks after admitting to wagering on tennis, in breach of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Bastia, who reached a career-high ITF singles ranking of 1835 in April 2024 and is unranked on the ATP Tour, admitted to placing bets on professional tennis matches (in which they played no part) between 2017 and 2023. The player has been fined $5,000, of which $2,500 is suspended.
25-year-old Bastia’s period of ineligibility began on 6 May 2024 and ends at midnight on 20 September 2024.
During the period of ineligibility, Bastia is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm sanctions for two tennis players under the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
The sanctions are linked to a recently concluded criminal case involving a match-fixing syndicate in Belgium. Collaboration between the ITIA and Belgian authorities led to a five-year custodial sentence for the leader of the syndicate, Grigor Sargsyan. Five other players related to the case had previously been sanctioned after failing to respond to ITIA charges in 2023.
Sanctions were imposed by independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Professor Richard McLaren following a formal hearing held between 4-5 March 2024. The sanctions are effective from 4 April 2024.
Alejandro Mendoza Crespo, a 34-year-old Bolivian who reached a career-high world singles ranking of 741 in 2016, was issued the maximum penalty by AHO McLaren for committing 20 major offenses under the TACP, resulting in a lifetime ban from the sport and a $250,000 fine.
Mendoza was found by AHO McLaren to have “engaged in a continuous pattern of corruption” between 2016 and 2018, including initiating corruption offenses by encouraging other players to contrive the outcome of matches for financial gain.
Jorge Panta Herreros, a 28-year-old Peruvian with a career-high world singles ranking of 447 reached in 2022, has been suspended for three years and fined $10,000, having been found liable for four major offenses under the TACP, including contriving the outcome of two of their own matches over a period of two years. Panta’s suspension will end at midnight on 3 April 2027.
During their periods of ineligibility, Mendoza and Panta are prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
To access the full decision, click here.
30 April 2024: USA Fencing athletes are aggrieved by the recent decision by USA Fencing to enact a weak and futile suspension on two American fencing referees.
Yesterday’s decision by USA Fencing to sanction Mr. Jacobo Morales and Mr. Brandon Romo for only nine months after being found guilty of violating the USA Fencing Referee Code of Ethics, the FIE Technical Rules and the FIE Ethical Code undermines the ethics of the sport and every athlete who strives for success on the grounds of fair play.
Fencers, like all athletes, are required and expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity when competing. When athletes fail to do so, swift sanctions and consequences are enacted. This decision, however, highlights the discrepancy in accountability standards between athletes and officials, with the latter often receiving minimal repercussions for breaking the rules of sport, as evidenced in this case. This decision provides zero deterrence for match manipulation and leaves athletes, who dedicate their lives to the sport, vulnerable to unfair refereeing and match-fixing.
These officials, who are not competing for medals, are expected to uphold the rules of the sport with integrity. Yet, they have undermined the very fiber of sport – a level playing field – and are facing inconsequential repercussions. If USA Fencing is committed to protecting the rules and integrity of their sport, these officials must receive multi-year suspensions.
Furthermore, based on this decision and with a pending second investigation yet to be complete, USA fencing has set a precedent that leniency is afforded to officials who break the rules. How can athletes have confidence that the sport will abide by its own rules that were established to protect athletes and fair play when decisions, as per this case, indirectly endorse match manipulation?
Importantly, the investigation and USA Fencing has failed to recognize this event was an Olympic qualifier. USA Fencing has yet to redistribute competition points to ensure justice prevails. If USA Fencing cares about fair sport this must be immediately implemented.
As athletes head into the Paris Olympic Games, USA Fencing and the International Fencing Federation have a responsibility to clean up the sport and enact tough sanctions on match manipulation to not only avoid a cloud of suspicion overshadowing the performances in Paris but to ensure that all fencers in Paris have fairly earnt their position and will compete on a level piste.
On behalf of,
Select members of the USA Fencing Team
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can confirm that Bulgarian tennis official Pavel Atanasov has been banned from the sport for life following 21 breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Atanasov, a national-level official, initially contested the charges before withdrawing their appeal ahead of a hearing before an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO). The case was ruled on by AHO Richard Young, who also issued Atanasov a $10,000 fine. The ban is effective from 4 March 2024.
In withdrawing from proceedings, Atanasov effectively admitted liability for numerous TACP offenses between 2019 and 2023, including the manipulation of scoring data of matches for betting purposes, facilitating wagering, conspiring to commit corruption offenses, wagering on tennis matches, and failure to report corrupt approaches.
Atanasov, who has officiated at ITF $15K and $25K tournaments in Bulgaria, is permanently prohibited from officiating at or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
To access the written decision, click here.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Spanish tennis player Aaron Cortes has been suspended for a period of 15 years after admitting to 35 breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Following a thorough investigation conducted by the ITIA and law enforcement, Cortes, who reached a career-high world singles ranking of 955 in September 2017, admitted to 35 breaches of the TACP between 2016 and 2018, including contriving the outcome of events, accepting money to contrive the outcome of events, failure to report corrupt approaches, wagering on tennis, and providing money to tournament officials in exchange for a wild card. The player has been fined $75,000, of which $56,250 is suspended.
29-year-old Cortes co-operated fully with the ITIA investigation and accepted an agreed sanction, waiving their right to a hearing before an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer. The player’s period of ineligibility began on 27 March 2024 and ends at midnight on 26 March 2039.
During the period of ineligibility, Cortes is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that Italian tennis official Manuel Guion has been suspended from the sport for a period of five years and six months following breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Guion, a national-level official, admitted to five breaches of the TACP, including conspiring to commit a Corruption Offense, soliciting a player to commit a Corruption Offense, encouraging tennis betting, and betting on events in which they were officiating.
Guion, who has officiated at ITF $15k tournaments and served as a line judge at ATP Challenger level, co-operated fully with the ITIA investigation and waived their right to a hearing before an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO).
The decision on sanction length was made by AHO Philippe Cavalieros (France), after Guion agreed to the sanction proposed by the ITIA. Guion has also been fined $6,000. The suspension began on 5 February 2024 and will end at midnight on 4 August 2029.
During the suspension, Guion is prohibited from officiating at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA).
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
All doubts that may arise from irregular conduct and decisions will be clarified through the audit.
The RFEF distances itself from the actions of its former president and all those who may be involved and wishes to reiterate that this institution is more important than its figureheads.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation will submit to the Management Committee calls for the implementation of a forensic audit on any type of contract that may be under suspicion due to the actions of its former president, Luis Rubiales.
The RFEF wants to show its total disapproval of any such irregular conduct and actions of its former president and all those who may be involved, as well as stressing that the institution is bigger than any one of its leaders.
Likewise, the RFEF, which is involved in the case, will demand accountability from those responsible for sending the documentation required by the courts, if it is confirmed that they failed to comply with their obligations. In addition, it will also examine any other culpability that may arise from irregular conduct or decisions.
The Federation is a fundamental institution of Spanish football, the home of the national teams and made up of professionals who carry out their work efficiently and who, together, seek to watch over the progress of this sport with great responsibility and effort. For this reason, the reputation of the Federation should not be linked to conduct of one individual or individuals , especially those who have allegedly engaged in unwanted, if not illegal, conduct.
This is exactly what the president of the management committee, Pedro Rocha, expressed, considering it "essential to separate and disassociate the institution from the allegedly criminal conduct" of individuals, assuring, moreover, that "we will stop at nothing to purge any existing questionable conduct".
During the last six months, every effort has been made to achieve this stabilisation and to turn the page following the crisis that has arisen, working to get people talking about football again.
The RFEF is aware of the importance of the current situation, only months away from a European Championship, the Olympic Games and the presentation of the bid to host the World Cup. For this reason, the stability of this institution is guaranteed before FIFA, UEFA, the CSD and all the fans of Spanish football. Our game is much more than its former presidents or leaders, and this is what we want to convey to the public.
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and fair play in the esports industry. In line with this commitment, we wish to inform the public about a recent development concerning the appeal process of Peter “casle” Ardenskjold.
In 2020, Mr. Ardenskjold was sanctioned for his involvement with the exploitation of a coaching bug within CS:GO. Following a comprehensive review and subsequent appeal, we are announcing a modification to the initial sanctions imposed on Mr. Ardenskjold.
After careful consideration, the independent Appeal Chair has decided in favor of reducing Mr. Ardenskjold’s demerit points based on the appeal’s merits and the compelling evidence provided by him. This reduction has a direct impact on his eligibility, making him able to participate in the forthcoming PGL Major, as it also leads to a reduction in his Valve sanctioned Regional Major Rankings (RMR) exclusion period. This change has been communicated to and accepted by Valve.
Mr. Ardenskjold has expressed his gratitude towards ESIC and the independent Appeal Chair for their willingness to consider his appeal, submitted out of the typical timeframe, and for recognizing the significance of the new evidence he presented.
This decision reflects ESIC’s dedication to justice and the reevaluation of cases when presented with new, compelling evidence. It underscores our commitment to a fair and competitive environment for all esports participants.
We extend our best wishes to Mr. Ardenskjold and all participants in the upcoming PGL Major.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Italian tennis player Andrea Rita has been suspended for a period of 15 months after admitting to breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Rita, who reached a career-high ITF singles ranking of 1712 in June 2023 and is unranked on the ATP Tour, admitted to four breaches of the TACP between 2018 and 2020, including wagering on tennis matches and the failure to report a corrupt approach. The player has been fined $5,000, of which $4,000 is suspended.
23-year-old Rita co-operated fully with the ITIA investigation and accepted an agreed sanction, waiving their right to a hearing before an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer. The player’s period of ineligibility began on 26 January 2024 and ends on 25 April 2025.
During the period of ineligibility, Rita is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has partially upheld an appeal from French tennis player Sherazad Reix against a disciplinary sanction imposed on 31 January 2023.
The CAS ruling means that Reix’s period of ineligibility has been reduced from four years to two, and their fine from $30,000 to $10,000, with three breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP) found.
Reix was found liable for six breaches of the TACP in 2023 by independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer Amani Khalifa. For full details, including the written decision, click here.
The player’s period of ineligibility runs from 31 January 2023 and will end on 30 January 2025.
During the period of ineligibility, Reix is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, French Tennis Federation, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Bosnian national-level tennis official Damjan Dejanovic has been provisionally suspended from the sport, pending the full consideration of Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP) charges.
Since 8 January 2024, Dejanovic has been prohibited from officiating at or attending any sanctioned tennis events authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, French Tennis Federation, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The provisional suspension was imposed under Section F.3.b.i.4 of the TACP, and was not appealed by Dejanovic:
F.3.b.i.4: ‘There is a likelihood that the Covered Person has committed a Major Offense and in the absence of a Provisional Suspension, the integrity of tennis would be undermined and the harm resulting from the absence of a Provisional Suspension outweighs the Hardship of the Provisional Suspension on the Covered Person.’
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that Tunisian tennis player Anis Ghorbel has been suspended from the sport for a period of three years, and fined $20,000, for four breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
The sanction is linked to a recently concluded criminal case involving a match-fixing syndicate in Belgium. Collaboration between the ITIA and Belgian authorities led to a five-year custodial sentence for the leader of the syndicate, Grigor Sargsyan.
Ghorbel – who held a career-high world singles ranking of 479 in 2016 – denied all charges related to the fixing of matches in 2016 and 2017. A hearing was held before independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Amani Khalifa on 22 December 2023.
AHO Khalifa found Ghorbel liable for four breaches of the TACP in total, including two breaches of section D.2.a.i of the TACP (failure to report a corrupt approach); and one breach of sections D.1.b and D.1.d of the TACP (facilitating wagering on the outcome of a match, and contriving the outcome or aspect of a match, respectively).
The suspension will run from the date of the decision (4 January 2024) until midnight of 3 January 2027.
During the period of ineligibility, Ghorbel is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, French Tennis Federation, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that French tennis player Leny Mitjana has been suspended from the sport for a period of ten years and fined $20,000 for 11 breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
The sanction is linked to a recently concluded criminal case involving a match-fixing syndicate in Belgium. Collaboration between the ITIA and Belgian authorities led to a five-year custodial sentence for the leader of the syndicate, Grigor Sargsyan.
Mitjana - who held a career-high world singles ranking of 458 in 2018 - denied all charges related to the fixing of matches in 2017 and 2018. A hearing was held before independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer Phillipe Cavalieros on 8 November 2023.
AHO Cavalieros found Mitjana liable for breaches of sections D.1.b, D.1.d, D.1.e and D.2.a.i of the TACP, which include the facilitation of wagering, contriving the outcome of matches, influencing other players not to use their best efforts in matches, and failing to report corrupt approaches.
The suspension will run from the date of the decision (22 December 2023) until midnight on 21 December 2033.
During the period of ineligibility, the player is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, French Tennis Federation, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
Published Tuesday, 09 January 2024.
Introduction to ESIC Public Statement on Lifetime Ban of Alexey Shyshko:
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) today announces a critical action in our ongoing efforts to safeguard the integrity of esports. Following a comprehensive investigation, ESIC has imposed a lifetime ban on Mr. Alexey Shyshko, proprietor of numerous professional esports teams, including Akuma, Majesty and Project X, for severe violations of the ESIC Code of Conduct and Anti-Corruption Code over a considerable period of time. This ban, effective from October 24, 2023, is in response to Mr. Shyshko’s involvement in orchestrating match-fixing activities and facilitating cheating within various esports competitions.
As proprietor, Mr. Shyshko misused his influential position to undermine the principles of fair competition and integrity that form the cornerstone of esports. This included manipulating match outcomes for financial gain and providing unfair advantages to his teams in competitive play, encouraging and facilitating various players to cheat and match-fix for his financial gain. Such actions not only compromised the integrity of individual matches but also tarnished the reputation of esports as a whole.
This decision, a first of its kind in terms of its severity, underscores ESIC’s commitment to enforcing strict adherence to its codes and ensuring a level playing field for all participants. The lifetime ban of Mr. Shyshko, accompanied by additional sanctions on associated teams and individuals, serves as a stark reminder that any form of corruption or unethical behavior within the esports arena will be met with the most serious consequences.
ESIC’s primary mission remains the preservation of the integrity and fair competition in esports. This case, while regrettable, highlights our unwavering dedication to this mission and our readiness to take decisive action to protect the sport’s integrity and the interests of all fair competitors and fans globally.
Overview of the Case
ESIC’s inquiry was propelled by information received through confidential sources, betting evidence provided by our Anti-Corruption Supporters and match analysis provided by experts seconded to us by ESIC member tournament organisers, necessitating a detailed and meticulous examination of the activities surrounding Mr. Shyshko, his multiple teams and large roster of associated players.
Our investigation unveiled substantial evidence that Mr. Shyshko engaged in activities that flagrantly and consistently violated the principles of fair play and integrity central to the ethos of esports. These activities primarily involved instances of match-fixing and facilitating cheating, which are antithetical to the competitive spirit of esports.
In one egregious incident, Mr. Shyshko was implicated in facilitating a match-fixing agreement during a Bulgarian LAN event, involving Team Majesty, which he owned and controlled. This plan, executed between August 20, 2020, and December 2, 2020, involved the deliberate manipulation of match outcomes with the promise of financial gain for the participating players. In another disturbing instance, during the “Time of Bet Cup” event, Mr. Shyshko provided Team Majesty with an unfair advantage by enabling unauthorized communication methods, significantly compromising the integrity of the competition.
The findings made by ESIC during its investigations into Mr. Shyshko’s behaviours paint a clear picture of Mr. Shyshko’s involvement in corrupt practices that directly contravened the ESIC Code of Conduct and Anti-Corruption Code, reflecting a calculated disregard for the fundamental principles of esports integrity.
The severity of Mr. Alexey Shyshko’s actions cannot be understated. His involvement in orchestrating match-fixing and facilitating cheating not only breached the trust of players, teams, and fans but also threatened the very foundation of fair competition in esports. These actions, uncovered during our thorough investigation, clearly violated specific sections of the ESIC Code.
The investigation revealed that Mr. Shyshko’s conduct breached Section 2.1 of the ESIC Code of Conduct, which mandates that esports participants must not engage in any form of cheating, match-fixing, or any other activities that undermine the integrity of esports. Additionally, his actions contravened Section 3.1 of the Anti-Corruption Code, which prohibits participants from engaging in betting, gambling, or similar activities that could lead to conflicts of interest. Furthermore, the violations also fell under the purview of Section 6.1 of the ESIC Disciplinary Procedure, which stipulates that participants found guilty of engaging in cheating or match-fixing are subject to a range of sanctions, including fines, suspensions, or disqualification from competition.
This background forms the basis of the sanctions imposed on Mr. Shyshko, reflecting ESIC’s unwavering commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity within the esports industry.
ESIC’s Actions and Sanctions:
In response to the grave violations committed by Mr. Alexey Shyshko, the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has taken decisive and stringent actions to uphold the integrity of esports and enforce its Integrity Program. The following summarizes the key actions and sanctions imposed:
Issuance of a Rejection Order Against Alexey Shyshko:
ESIC has issued a Rejection Order against Mr. Shyshko, effective from October 24, 2023, culminating in a lifetime ban from all ESIC member events. This unprecedented sanction reflects the seriousness of Mr. Shyshko’s offenses and serves as a strong deterrent to others who might contemplate similar violations.
The Rejection Order encompasses a comprehensive participation restriction, prohibiting Mr. Shyshko from participating in any capacity—whether as owner, agent, or manager—in any ESIC member events. Additionally, any team or player in which Mr. Shyshko has an interest or involvement is also barred from participating in ESIC member events.
Mr. Shyshko was served with the Rejection Order and given an opportunity to respond. It is noted that Mr.Shysko did not contest ESIC’s charge and expressed an acceptance of the charges and the sanction applied by ESIC.
Sanctions on Teams and Individuals Associated with Shyshko:
Earlier this week, ESIC handed down additional sanctions for participants associated with the teams implicated in Mr. Shyshko’s behaviour. This action reinforces the principle that entities linked to corrupt practices will face serious repercussions. Further investigations and potential prosecutions remain in progress.
Protection and Immunity for Cooperating Individuals:
In recognition of the valuable assistance provided by several individuals during the investigation, ESIC has granted immunity to those who cooperated in bringing this outcome to pass. This decision underscores ESIC’s commitment to encouraging reporting of unethical behavior while ensuring the safety and anonymity of informants.
Through these actions, ESIC affirms its steadfast dedication to maintaining the integrity of esports. These sanctions are a clear message that violations of the ESIC Code of Conduct and Anti-Corruption Code will be met with the utmost seriousness and result in significant consequences. This stance is vital in preserving the spirit of fair competition and the trust of players, teams, and fans in the esports ecosystem.
Conclusion and ESIC’s Comments
In conclusion, the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity within the esports industry. The rigorous investigation and subsequent sanctions imposed on Mr. Alexey Shyshko and associated individuals reflect our resolve to confront unethical behavior head-on and protect the essence of fair competition.
ESIC remains vigilant and proactive in identifying and addressing threats to the integrity of esports. We continue to refine our monitoring and investigative processes, working collaboratively with teams, players, and event organizers to foster an environment where fair play is paramount.
We encourage all stakeholders within the esports industry – players, teams, organizers, and fans – to join us in this important endeavor. By working together, we can create a landscape that not only values competitive excellence but also champions ethical conduct and respect for the rules.
ESIC is committed to maintaining transparent and open lines of communication with all members of the esports community. We welcome feedback, collaboration, and information that can aid in our mission to maintain a clean and reputable competitive environment.
In September, the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) provisionally suspended Mr. Joel Hulmlund for serious breaches of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code (see our Statement here: Public Statement on Disciplinary Action Against Participant Joel “Joel” Holmlund – ESIC).
Notably, the provisional suspension of Mr. Holmlund, was related to his behavior while being a professional player for the team Godsent. Namely, that he had engaged in corrupt behavior contravening the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code during his participation in the BetBoom Playlist Urbanistic event, and separately in the IEM Dallas 2023 (Europe Closed Qualifier) involving Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), in the following manner:
- Between the period of 27 March 2023 to 28 March 2023, Mr. Holmlund placed bets on matches he was playing in;
- On 31 March 2023, Mr. Holmlund placed two bets against his own team in one match; and
- Between the period of 29 March 2023 to 1 May 2023, Mr. Holmlund proceeded to place 17 bets on various CS:GO matches.
As part of ESIC’s process in this matter, Mr. Holmlund was given an opportunity to provide further evidence on or before 6 October 2023, and to further cooperate with ESIC’s investigation. While Mr. Holmlund was unable to provide any evidence to the contrary of ESIC’s charges, Mr. Holmlund made significant efforts to cooperate with ESIC’s investigation.
Importantly, as a result of ESIC’s investigation, and with significant consideration of Mr. Holmlund’s cooperation, assistance, genuine contrition and commitment to seeking professional help, ESIC has concluded this investigation by issuing Mr. Holmlund with a Rejection Order spanning the period of 30 August 2023 to 6 January 2024.
This In the interest of transparency and public confidence, we are issuing this statement to inform the public about the considerations taken into account in arriving at the outcome of this matter and to provide examples of the matters and actions ESIC may consider in any future interaction with a participant under investigation or convicted of an offence under the ESIC Codes.
Assistance with Investigations:
ESIC is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and fair play in the esports industry. As part of our commitment, ESIC sometimes offer individuals under investigation, or those already convicted, the opportunity to assist in our broader investigations. This can lead to a reduction in their sanctions or, in certain cases, exemption from prosecution. In the recent investigation involving Mr. Holmlund, he provided ESIC with crucial information pertinent to various ongoing inquiries. His full and candid cooperation was helpful to ESIC’s ongoing investigations. Consequently, we have decided that a reduction in Mr. Holmlund’s suspension is warranted and aligns with the principles of fairness and justice.
ESIC encourages individuals facing investigation or sanction within the esports industry to come forward and collaborate with ESIC. By providing valuable information and aiding in our investigations, they not only contribute to the integrity and transparency of the esports industry but also stand to benefit from potential reductions in their penalties. This approach underscores our commitment to fairness and the importance of cooperative efforts in maintaining the highest ethical standards in esports. We believe that this approach not only aids in effective enforcement but also fosters a culture of responsibility and honesty among participants.
Recognition of Gambling Problems and Consequences
It became apparent early in our interactions with Mr. Holmlund that he fit the gambling industry’s definition of a problem gambler – someone who lacks control over their gambling habits and exhibits signs of addiction. Throughout his initial discussions with ESIC, where Mr. Holmlund was supported by skilled legal counsel, he acknowledged his gambling issues and agreed to pursue professional counseling and treatment. ESIC considers this behavioral issue as a significant factor contributing to Mr. Holmlund’s involvement in betting on CSGO, which was in violation of the ESIC Codes. However, Mr. Holmlund’s commitment to seek help was considered favorably when concluding on the duration of the Rejection Order issued.
Apology and Commitments to the Community
Mr. Holmlund has not only expressed his willingness to apologise to the CS and wider esports community for his actions (as detailed in his statement below and on social media), but he has also agreed to collaborate with ESIC in our participant education program. He will contribute by creating video content that highlights the risks associated with betting on one’s professional game and more broadly addresses the negative aspects of gambling, especially for those who struggle with responsible gambling. ESIC is confident that Mr. Holmlund’s involvement in this initiative will greatly benefit the esports community by enhancing understanding and management of the relationship between esports and betting on these events.
Suggestions of Match-Fixing
It has been alleged that, in addition to the betting offences committed by Mr. Holmlund, he also deliberately underperformed in order to win bets where he had bet against his own team. Upon further investigation and assessment, and in the interest of justice, ESIC wishes to clarify that there is no compelling or conclusive evidence that this is true.
Practical Outcomes
The conclusion of this investigation and the corresponding Rejection Order duration will mean that Mr. Holmlund will have served an effective 7 month ban from ESIC member events, which we believe is proportionate to his original offences when looked at together with the assistance and commitments detailed above. Accordingly, he is free to play in any ESIC member event from 6th January 2024 onwards.
Statement from Mr. Holmlund
Dear Members of the Esports Community,
I am writing this statement to openly and sincerely apologize for my actions that have affected the CSGO and broader esports community. It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge my involvement in betting on professional CSGO matches, a clear violation of the ESIC Codes and the trust you placed in me as a member of this community.
Reflecting on my actions, I realize the gravity of my mistake and the negative impact it has had on the integrity of the sport we all love and cherish. My behavior was not only irresponsible but also undermined the principles of fair play and sportsmanship that are the foundation of competitive gaming.
I understand that being a professional in the esports industry carries with it a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of conduct. My actions fell short of these standards, and for that, I am truly sorry. I have let down my fans, teammates, and the entire esports community, and for this, I take full responsibility.
As part of my commitment to rectify my actions, I have agreed to participate in ESIC’s participant education program. Through this, I aim to share my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned, highlighting the dangers of betting on professional games and the broader risks associated with irresponsible gambling. I hope that by sharing my story, I can prevent others from making similar mistakes and contribute positively to the community I care deeply about.
I am currently seeking professional counseling and treatment for my gambling issues. This journey towards recovery is not just about complying with the sanctions but is a personal commitment to better myself and rebuild the trust I have lost.
I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from my mistakes and to contribute to the betterment of the esports community. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.
Sincerely,
Joel
ESIC’s Commitment to Integrity
ESIC remains steadfast in our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in esports. We will continue to conduct investigations and impose sanctions when necessary to protect the integrity of the industry. We also encourage the esports community to actively participate in promoting fair play and integrity in esports. We would strongly encourage participants with knowledge of corrupt acts to come forward and talk to us. We are already discretely working with several players in addition to Joel to either indemnify them from prosecution in return for valuable information or to reduce sanctions in return for information leading to prosecution of bad actors in esports. If you know something, please consider coming forward voluntarily or face harsher sanctions when you are eventually caught.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Slovenian tennis official Marko Ducman has been suspended from the sport for 10 years and six months after admitting to breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Ducman, an international-level official, admitted to four breaches of the TACP, including wagering on tennis matches and manipulating data from matches in which they were an official to facilitate betting.
Ducman, a bronze-badge official who has officiated at ITF, ATP and WTA tournaments, co-operated fully with the ITIA investigation and accepted an agreed sanction, waiving their right to a hearing before an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer. Ducman has also been fined $75,000, with $56,250 suspended.
The official has been provisionally suspended since 8 September 2023, and time served under provisional suspension will be credited against Ducman’s period of ineligibility. As such, their suspension will end on 7 March 2034.
During the suspension, Ducman is prohibited from officiating at or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA: ATP, ITF, WTA, Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon and US Open, or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that five tennis players have been sanctioned for breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
The sanctions are linked to a recently concluded criminal case involving a match-fixing syndicate in Belgium. Collaboration between the ITIA and Belgian authorities led to a five-year custodial sentence for the leader of the syndicate, Grigor Sargsyan.
Sanctions were imposed by independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Professor Richard McLaren, after all five players failed to contest the ITIA’s charges against them, either at all or within the time limit set by the TACP. All of the following players’ sanctions began on 30 September 2023.
Mexican Alberto Rojas Maldonado, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 992 in 2015, was found to have committed 92 breaches of the TACP – the second-highest number of breaches for one individual - and played a pivotal role in the corruption of other players. As a result, the player was issued a lifetime ban from the sport and ordered to pay the maximum fine of $250,000.
Guatemalan Christopher Díaz Figueroa, who reached an ATP career-high ranking of 326 in 2011 and previously served a three-year suspension for match-fixing (with one year suspended), has now been banned from the sport for life and fined $75,000 for 13 further TACP breaches, including match-fixing and the facilitation of wagering.
Mexican José Antonio Rodríguez Rodríguez, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 1367 in 2017, was found to have committed eight breaches of the TACP, including match-fixing and the facilitation of wagering. AHO McLaren found that Rodríguez acted in concert with Maldonado to realise “significant financial gain.” The player has been suspended for 12 years and ordered to pay a fine of $25,001. Rodríguez’s suspension will end on 29 September 2035.
Mexican Antonio Ruiz Rosales, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 652 in 2008, has been suspended for 10 years and fined $30,000 for seven breaches of the TACP, including match-fixing and the facilitation of wagering. Ruiz’s suspension will end on 29 September 2033.
Mexican Orlando Alcántara Rangel, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 1735 in 2015, has been suspended for two years and fined $10,000 for two breaches of the TACP. Alcántara’s suspension will end on 29 September 2025.
During the players’ suspensions, they are prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA: ATP, ITF, WTA, Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon and US Open, or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
To access the full decision, click here.
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has concluded its investigation and is taking decisive action against Mr. Burak “Monkeylay” Can Turunc, a professional esports player formerly of the team “NoChance”, for multiple breaches of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
After thorough investigations, Mr. Turunc was served with a Formal Notice of Charge for violations of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code during the Intel ESL Turkiye CS:GO Sampiyonasi – Sezon XII – Playoffs. The allegations pertain to corrupt practices, including betting against his own team, “NoChance,” and breaching the ESIC Code of Conduct.
Overview of the Case
Mr. Turunc is alleged to have engaged in activities that contravene the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code during the Intel ESL Turkiye CS:GO Sampiyonasi – Sezon XII – Playoffs, specifically:
- Betting against his own team during the competition,
- Engaging in practices that influence the outcome of matches for betting purposes.
Investigation and Charges
The investigation included examining betting records, account registrations, digital footprints, and betting patterns. The ESIC thanks its Anti-Corruption Supporter member betting operators for providing evidence that was crucial in establishing the charges against Mr. Turunc.
Mr. Turunc is charged with a breach of the following articles of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code:
2 .1 Corruption:
2.1.1 Fixing or contriving in any way or otherwise influencing improperly, or being a party to any agreement or effort to fix or contrive in any way or otherwise influence improperly, the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of any Match, including (without limitation) by deliberately underperforming therein.
2.1.2 Ensuring for Betting or other corrupt purposes the occurrence of a particular incident in a Match or Event.
2.1.3 Seeking, accepting, offering or agreeing to accept any bribe or other Reward to: (a) fix or to contrive in any way or otherwise to influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of any Match; or (b) ensure for Betting or other corrupt purposes the occurrence of a particular incident in a Match.
2.2 Betting:
2.2.1 Betting on any CS:GO Match, especially those in which you participate as a player.
2.2.2 Facilitating, aiding, abetting, or otherwise assisting any party in committing acts described in 2.2.1.
2.3.1 Failing to disclose to the ESIC a full and true disclosure of all the facts and circumstances with respect to acts described in 2.1 and 2.2.
Further offences under the ESIC Code of Conduct articles as follows;
2.4.5 Where the facts of the alleged incident are not adequately or clearly covered by any of the above offences, conduct that brings Esport, the Game, Event, ESIC or a Member into disrepute.
Despite the presentation of substantial evidence and the provision of a plea bargain that would result in a minimum two-year exclusion from all ESIC member events, Mr. Turunc has not engaged with ESIC’s disciplinary process. He has neither responded to the Notice of Charge nor the offered plea bargain.
Sanction Duration
Consequently, in adherence to ESIC’s regulatory framework and the gravity of the charges, the Commission is left with no alternative but to proceed with the imposition of the sanctions as per the Anti-Corruption Code. The imposed sanction will be a ban of two years from the date of the initial Notice of Charge, extending until midnight on 6th September 2025. During this period, Mr. Turunc is barred from participating in any capacity within ESIC member events.
FC Barcelona are facing a bribery charge in the Spanish courts for their payments to former vice-president of the Spanish Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) José María Enríquez Negreira which totalled €7.7 million between 2001 and 2018.
El Mundo reveal that, in a report requested by the court, Spain's Civil Guard had concluded that referees under the watch of the CTA's former president Victoriano Sanchez Arminio and Negreira weren't always "unbiased". It was found that they ran an "irregular operation" while overseeing the committee, where decisions which "would not have always had impartial support" from a sporting perspective were made.
Judge Joaquin Aguirre Lopez reviewed the public prosecutor’s case and ruled that the matter would proceed to trial with the club former presidents Josep Maria Bartomeu, Sandro Rosell and Negreira’s son Javier Enríquez also being named as defendants.
As explained by Cadena SER, the parties involved have been notified by the judge presiding the case that the original crime of "continued corruption between individuals in the sports field" is merely that. Instead, the judge believes that the crime of bribery fits the case better, because Negreira "participated in the exercise of public functions" during the period of time that he received payments from Barca, which then ceased when he left his position.
The judge also said that he believed the case demonstrated the club obtained advantages from referees. It will be for a jury, nine people under Spanish law, to decide.
If found guilty the club could be suspended from La Liga and given the clubs precarious financial situation this would likely result in bankruptcy, the individual defendants could receive between three and six years in prison.
UEFA will conduct their own investigation into the allegations but this may not be undertaken until the Spanish court has issued its ruling. All of the defendants deny the allegations.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Slovenian tennis umpire Marko Ducman has been provisionally suspended from the sport, pending the full consideration of Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP) charges.
Since 8 September 2023, the bronze badge official has been prohibited from competing in or attending any sanctioned tennis events organised by the governing bodies of the sport.
The provisional suspension was imposed under Section F.3.b.i.4. of the TACP, and was not appealed by Ducman:
F.3.b.i.4. There is a likelihood that the Covered Person has committed a Major Offense and in the absence of a Provisional Suspension, the integrity of tennis would be undermined and the harm resulting from the absence of a Provisional Suspension outweighs the Hardship of the Provisional Suspension on the Covered Person.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) is an independent body established in 2021 by the ATP, ITF, WTA and Grand Slams to promote, encourage, enhance and safeguard the integrity of their professional tennis events worldwide.
Introduction
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has taken decisive action to provisionally suspend Mr. Joel “Joel” Holmlund, a professional esports player, formerly of team Godsent, from all ESIC Member events in light of evidence available corroborating allegations of his multiple breaches of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
Overview of the Case
It is alleged that Mr. Joel Holmlund, while being a professional player for the team Godsent, engaged in corrupt behavior contravening the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code during his participation in the BetBoom Playlist Urbanistic event, and separately in the IEM Dallas 2023 (Europe Closed Qualifier) involving Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), for the following infringements:
- Between the period of 27 March 2023 to 28 March 2023, Mr. Holmlund placed bets on matches he was playing in;
- On 31 March 2023, Mr. Holmlund placed two bets against his own team in one match; and
- Between the period of 29 March 2023 to 1 May 2023, Mr. Holmlund proceeded to place 17 bets on various CS:GO matches.
Although the tournament related to item 1 was not an ESIC member event tournament, the ESIC Codes allow ESIC to issue a Rejection Order pursuant to item 2.A.2 of the Anti-Corruption Code. The tournament related to item 2 was an ESIC member event, and the ESIC Codes give ESIC jurisdiction. This sanction will be issued to all ESIC members and may be adopted by other third parties at their discretion.
Investigation and Charges
Our comprehensive investigation into the matter involved examining:
- Records of individual bets placed during specific events.
- Multiple account registrations and their associated details.
- Digital footprints, including IP addresses, device IDs, and browser information.
- Linkages between the betting accounts and various social media platforms.
- Betting patterns in relation to specific esports matches and in-game performance.
- Records of bets placed on various esports matches.
- Patterns of betting behavior in relation to professional participation.
ESIC is grateful for the cooperation of our Anti-Corruption Supporter member betting operators for providing this evidence.
After collating and reviewing the evidence in light of the allegations, Mr. Holmlund was charged with a breach of ESIC’s Anti-Corruption Code, particularly:
2.1 Corruption:
2.1.1 Fixing or contriving in any way or otherwise influencing improperly, or being a party to any effort to fix or contrive in any way or otherwise influence improperly, the result, progress, conduct, or any other aspect of any Match.
2.2 Betting:
2.2.1 Betting on any CS:GO Match, including matches that you were a professional participant in as detailed in the infringements above.
2.2.2 Facilitating, aiding, abetting or otherwise assisting any party in committing acts described in 2.2.1.
2.2.3 Failing to disclose to the ESIC a full and true disclosure of all the facts and circumstances with respect to acts described in 2.1 and 2.2.
And further offences under the ESIC Code of Conduct articles as follows;
2.4.5 Where the facts of the alleged incident are not adequately or clearly covered by any of the above offences, conduct that brings Esport, the Game, Event, ESIC or a Member into disrepute.
Mr. Holmlund was served with a Notice of Charge on 30 August 2023 and given an opportunity to respond. After denying the charges in reply, ESIC gathered additional evidence to assess the veracity of his denials.
Considering the gravity of the allegations, Mr. Holmlund’s current active participation in an ESIC-affiliated event, and being satisfied with the compelling evidence presented in its further investigation, ESIC has elected to suspend Mr. Holmlund via a Rejection Order Notice. While the suspension stands, ESIC remains open to reevaluation should Mr. Holmlund present new evidence by 6 October 2023.
Sanction Duration
At the time of publication, as the Rejection Order Notice has not been finalised, ESIC will reserve the disclosure of the duration of the ban on participation in ESIC member events to be imposed. ESIC will make a further statement on or after 6 October 2023 to confirm the final outcome of the investigation.
The ESIC Open Matters Register, found on the ESIC website, will facilitate any further public updates about this matter as published by ESIC from time to time, and at its discretion.
Published Friday, 25 August 2023.
Published Friday, 12 July 2024.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Venezuelan tennis official Armando Belardi has been banned for life following 26 breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Belardi, a national-level official who previously served a 30-month suspension for failure to co-operate with an investigation, did not respond to the ITIA’s charges. The case was ruled on by independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Janie Soublière, who also issued Belardi a fine of $75,000.
In failing to respond to the ITIA charges, Belardi effectively admitted liability for all charges and acceded to sanctions.
The breaches included facilitation of wagering, contriving the outcome of matches, and soliciting money or benefit to negatively influence a player’s best efforts.
The ban is effective from 7 May 2024, the date of the decision. As such, Belardi is permanently prohibited from attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
To access the full decision, click here.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that Austrian wheelchair tennis player Nico Langmann has accepted a sanction for breaching tennis’ betting sponsorship rules. Langmann co-operated fully with the investigation and did not contest the charge.
As an active wheelchair tennis player, Langmann is considered a “covered person”, who must comply with the sport’s rules around relationships with betting operators. The Tennis Anti-Corruption Program rules state that: “No Covered Person shall directly or indirectly, facilitate, encourage and/or promote Tennis Betting (‘Facilitation’).”
In January 2023, Langmann entered into a contract with an Austrian online gaming and betting operator to become an ambassador, a deal which included, but was not limited to, use of Langmann’s image and social media profile to promote the brand. Upon receiving contact from the ITIA, Langmann withdrew from the arrangement and made best efforts to remove promotional content already produced.
There is no suggestion of any corrupt behaviour linked to the rule violation, and the ITIA accepted that the violation was inadvertent. As such, Langmann has been issued a two-month suspended ban and fined $10,000. The suspension will not come into force unless there is a further breach of the rules during the two-month period, which began on 14 May 2024.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Argentinian tennis player Eduardo Agustín Torre has been suspended for a period of five years following 35 breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
The sanction is linked to a recently concluded criminal case involving a match-fixing syndicate in Belgium. Collaboration between the ITIA and Belgian authorities led to a five-year custodial sentence for the leader of the syndicate, Grigor Sargsyan. Charges against Torre relate to offenses from 2017, but the ITIA’s case was deferred until after the conclusion of criminal proceedings.
Torre, who reached a career-high world singles ranking of 596 in September 2014, did not respond to the ITIA’s charges. The case was ruled on by independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Amani Khalifa, who also issued Torre a fine of $35,000.
In failing to respond to the ITIA charges, Torre effectively admitted liability for all charges and acceded to sanctions.
The breaches included facilitation of wagering, contriving the outcome of matches, soliciting money or benefit to negatively influence a player’s best efforts, failure to report corrupt approaches, and failure to report corruption offenses.
The suspension will run from the date of the decision (26 April 2024) and end at midnight on 25 April 2029.
During the period of ineligibility, Torre is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) announces the conclusion of an investigation into the conduct of Roheen “Goon” during his participation in a CS2 tournament. Our investigation confirmed Mr. Roheen’s engagement in prohibited betting activities on the tournament events in which he was a participant, a clear violation of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
Key findings from the investigation include evidence from live game footage and verified screenshots of communications with betting operators, which substantiate that Mr. Roheen placed bets on the tournament. His engagement in these activities and subsequent failure to report these activities to ESIC constituted a breach of our Anti-Corruption Code, specifically under items 2.2.1 and 2.4.5.
Given the serious nature of these breaches, ESIC has imposed a Rejection Order against Mr. Roheen “Goon,” effective for a period of nine months starting from 3 April 2024 to 3 January 2025. This sanction, represents a penalty for a reduced period of nine months due to Mr. Roheen’s early plea and responsive measures in removing his bets on the events which form the substance of the sanction.
During this period, Mr. Roheen is prohibited from participating in ESIC member tournaments. The decision to impose this sanction reflects ESIC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of esports competitions and upholding the highest standards of conduct.
ESIC remains dedicated to ensuring fair play and the ethical conduct of all participants in esports events. We will continue to enforce strict compliance with our Anti-Corruption Code to protect the integrity of the esports industry.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that Italian tennis official Antonio Casa has been suspended from the sport for a period of seven years and six months following breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Casa, a national-level official, admitted to seven breaches of the TACP, including attempting to commit a Corruption Offense, manipulation of match scoring for betting purposes, and facilitation of betting.
Casa, who has officiated at ITF $15K and $25K events and served as a line judge at ATP Challenger level, co-operated fully with the ITIA investigation and waived their right to a hearing before an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer. Casa has also been fined $25,001, of which $17,001 is suspended. The official’s agreed sanction began on 28 March 2024 and will end at midnight on 27 September 2031.
During the suspension, Casa is prohibited from officiating at or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA).
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that former tennis player and Peruvian tournament director and Davis Cup captain Luis Horna has accepted a sanction for breaching tennis’ betting sponsorship rules. Horna co-operated fully with the investigation and did not contest the charge.
As a tournament director and team captain, Horna is considered a “covered person”, who must comply with the sport’s rules around relationships with betting operators.
The Tennis Anti-Corruption Program rules state that: “No Covered Person shall directly or indirectly, facilitate, encourage and/or promote Tennis Betting (‘Facilitation’).” In 2023, Horna entered into a contract with a betting operator to provide professional services and promote tennis betting. Upon receiving contact from the ITIA, Horna expressed remorse, withdrew from the arrangement and deleted all promotional material related to the betting brand.
There is no suggestion of any corrupt behaviour linked to the rule violation, and the ITIA accepted that the violation was inadvertent. As such, Horna has been issued a six-month suspended ban and fined $10,000. The suspension will not come into force unless there is a further breach of the rules during the six-month period, which began on 5 April 2024.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed an appeal from Tunisian chair umpire Abderahim Gharsallah against a disciplinary sanction imposed in July 2022.
An appeal hearing was held in Lausanne, Switzerland on 26 April 2023, from which the CAS tribunal upheld the seven-year suspension from tennis issued by Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Jane Mulcahy KC in the first instance hearing.
Gharsallah, a national-level official, was found by the CAS to have committed four breaches of the TACP relating to an event held in Tunisia in 2020. For full details, click here.
The official’s period of ineligibility remains unchanged, beginning on 6 November 2020 – the date of their provisional suspension from tennis - and will end at midnight on 5 November 2027.
During the period of ineligibility, Gharsallah is prohibited from officiating at or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that Swedish tennis player Dragos Nicolae Madaras has been suspended from the sport for a period of four years and six months and fined $2,500 for breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
The ITIA charged Madaras with breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP) following a series of events in which Madaras refused to submit a personal device for examination when issued a request to do so by ITIA investigators.
Instead of handing over their mobile phone for examination, Madaras passed the device to their brother, Patrick, who had received accreditation to an event under the pretence of being Dragos’ hitting partner. Patrick also refused to submit the device, before departing the scene.
A hearing was held before independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Charles Hollander KC on 28 February 2024, in which AHO Hollander found Dragos Madaras to have breached sections F.2.b (failure to co-operate) and D.1.l (obtaining accreditation by misrepresentation) of the TACP.
Madaras has been provisionally suspended since 17 August 2023, and time served under provisional suspension will be credited against their period of ineligibility. As such, their suspension will end on 16 February 2028.
During the period of ineligibility, the player is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
Patrick Madaras, who has no professional role in tennis, was also found to have breached section F.2.b of the TACP and has been suspended from attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by members of the ITIA or any national association for a period of two years and six months.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
To access the full decision, click here.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Croatian tennis official Marko Stojanovic has been suspended from the sport for five years and six months after admitting to breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Stojanovic, a national-level official, admitted to 15 breaches of the TACP, including manipulating data from matches in which they were an official to facilitate betting.
Stojanovic, who is accredited at national level and has officiated at ITF tournaments, co-operated fully with the ITIA investigation and accepted an agreed sanction, waiving their right to a hearing before an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer. Stojanovic has also been fined $25,000, of which $18,750 is suspended.
The official’s agreed sanction began on 19 February 2024 and will end at midnight on 18 August 2029.
During the suspension, Stojanovic is prohibited from officiating at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, Fédération Française de Tennis, Wimbledon and USTA).
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm Miami Open Tournament Director and former tennis player James Blake has accepted a sanction for breaching tennis’ betting sponsorship rules. Blake co-operated fully with the investigation and did not contest the charge.
As a Tournament Director, Blake is considered a “covered person”, who must comply with the sport’s rules around relationships with betting operators.
The ITIA accepted that the violation was unintentional and has issued a fine of $56,250 with a further suspended fine of $131,250 and a suspended ban of 18 months. The additional fine and suspension do not come into force unless there is a further breach of the rules during the 18-month period, which started on 9 February 2024.
The TACP rules state that: “No Covered Person shall directly or indirectly, facilitate, encourage and/or promote Tennis Betting (‘Facilitation’).”
Karen Moorhouse, CEO of the ITIA, commented, “Across our members – the ATP, WTA, ITF and Grand Slams – the rules prohibit accredited individuals from having commercial relationships with betting companies.
“This case is more a matter of perception, rather than corruption. The rules apply to players, coaches, officials and accredited tournament staff - who all have the ability to influence results or have access to inside information.
“We urge anyone in the sport who is unclear or is considering commercial deals like this to get in touch with us to seek guidance.”
To download the ITIA App, which is custom-designed to support players, representatives and support staff with TACP and Tennis Anti-Doping Programme rules, click here (iOS) or here (Android).
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that French tennis player Maxence Broville has been suspended from the sport for a period of seven years and fined $5,000 for failure to co-operate with an ITIA investigation.
Broville, who held a career-high world singles ranking of 708 in 2023, denied all charges related to the fixing of matches in 2017 and 2018. A hearing was held before independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Charles Hollander on 5 January 2024.
AHO Hollander found Broville liable for breaches of F.2.b and F.2.d of the TACP, which relate to the failure to co-operate with an ITIA investigation, including refusal to submit personal devices for examination when issued a written request to do so by ITIA investigators.
Broville has been provisionally suspended since 20 June 2023, and time served under provisional suspension will be credited against their period of ineligibility. As such, their suspension will end on 19 June 2030.
During the period of ineligibility, the player is prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, French Tennis Federation, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
Published Thursday, 25 January 2024.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) can today confirm that Bulgarian tennis official Stefan Milanov has been suspended from the sport for a period of 16 years following 17 breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Milanov, a national-level official who served a six-month suspension for betting offenses in 2022, did not respond to the ITIA’s charges. The case was ruled on by independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Amani Khalifa, who also issued Milanov a fine of $75,000.
In failing to respond to the ITIA charges - relating to five matches that they umpired in 2021 – Milanov effectively admitted liability for all charges and acceded to sanctions, as outlined under sections G.1.e.ii and G.1.e.iii of the TACP.
The charges included five breaches of Section D.1.b of the 2021 TACP – directly or indirectly facilitating any other person to wager on the outcome or any other aspect of an event; five breaches of Section D.1.m of the 2021 TACP – delaying or manipulating entry of scoring data from any Event for any reason; five breaches of Section D.1.n of the 2021 TACP – directly or indirectly attempting, agreeing or conspiring to commit any Corruption Offense; and two breaches of Section F.2.b of the 2023 TACP – failing to co-operate fully with investigations conducted by the ITIA.
The suspension will run from the date of the decision (28 December 2023) until midnight on 27 December 2039.
During the suspension, Milanov is prohibited from officiating at or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA (ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, French Tennis Federation, Wimbledon and USTA) or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
Published Friday, 12 January 2024.
Zimbabwe captain, Sikandar Raza and Ireland players, Curtis Campher and Josh Little have been fined for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the first T20I match between Zimbabwe and Ireland at Harare Sports Club on Thursday.
Raza has been fined 50 per cent of his match fee and received two demerit points, meaning he is suspended for the remaining two matches of the ongoing three-match series after his accumulated demerit points reached four within a 24-month period following his latest breach of the ICC Code of Conduct.
Campher and Little have been fined 15 per cent of their respective match fees and received one demerit point each, their first within 24 months.
All three were found to have breached Article 2.20 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to “conduct contrary to the spirit of the game.”
Campher and Little admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing.
Raza admitted to the offence but did not accept the sanction proposed by Mr. Pycroft. The sanction was confirmed in a formal hearing on 8 December.
The incidents occurred as follows:
Raza was charged with aggressively charging towards Campher and Josh Little while pointing his bat and breaking away from the umpire who had tried to calm the situation.
Campher was charged with charging towards Raza, side-stepping one of the on-field umpires who tried to stop his progress.
Little was charged with making physical contact with Raza after the latter complained about Little’s blocking his path when trying to make a run.
On-field umpires Forster Mutizwa and Iknow Chabi, third umpire Langton Rusere and fourth official Christopher Phiri levelled the charges.
Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points.
Luguelín Santos has been banned by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for three years for age-manipulation violations at the IAAF World Junior Championships (Barcelona 2012); his three-year period of ineligibility running from 11 March 2023 to 10 March 2026.
The Dominican Republic athlete – the 400-metre gold medallist at the event (now known as the World Athletics U20 Championships) – admitted to competing in the 2012 age-group championships with a passport showing a falsified date of birth – 12 November 1993 – when in fact he born on that date in 1992. Thus, he was ineligible to participate in the World Juniors 2012 which, based on the 2012 Competition Rules, required junior athletes to be aged 18 or 19 on 31 December of the competition year.
“Our ongoing investigations have been unearthing a disturbing level of cheating, through age manipulation, which has distorted results of junior athletics competitions at the highest level. In this instance, a World Junior champion was wrongfully crowned, and the rightful winner was denied his moment of glory,” noted AIU Head Brett Clothier.
“Beyond that, age manipulation is challenging us to confront serious issues, including embedded cultures which are teaching youth inappropriate values, as well as providing the means for athletes’ ages to be altered in national documents, and ultimately celebrating ill-gotten victories. The AIU stands firmly against such actions and will pursue all such alleged violations vigorously.”
Santos, now aged 31, was charged with three violations of the World Athletics (formerly IAAF) Competition Rules 2012-2013: Rule 141 (participating whilst not eligible); Rule 9.6 (engaging in corrupt practices in relation to Athletics) and Rule 9.10(c) (failing to report any approaches or invitations to engage in conduct that would amount to a violation of Rule 9). He was also charged with violating Articles C.4 and C.6 of the IAAF Code of Ethics, in force from 1 May 2012, by engaging in corrupt practices relating to the sport of Athletics under Rule 9 of the Competition Rules. His fifth charge related to violating the Integrity Standard set out in Section 3.3.1 of the World Athletics Integrity Code of Conduct, in force from 3 April 2017, for failing to act with utmost integrity and honesty at all times in entering International Competitions from 3 April 2017 onwards using a falsified document.
From 2010 to 2017, Santos declared 1993 as his birth year for competitions. However, in February 2018, he declared his birthdate was 12 November 1992, based on a passport issued in 2018. The athlete continued using his 1992 birthdate throughout 2018. A 1992 birthdate meant that on 31 December 2012, Santos would have been 20 years old and thus ineligible to compete as a “junior” at the World Junior Championships 2012. When confronted with this assertion by the AIU, the athlete revealed that, on instructions, he had obtained a ‘special passport’ issued by the Dominican authorities which gave his date of birth as being 12 November 1993, contrary to his actual date of birth of 12 November 1992. Santos also told the AIU that he had been directed to use the ‘special passport’ with the false birth year (1993) for competitions, but the genuine passport (birth year 1992) for all other official purposes.
Santos admitted using the ‘special passport' for entry into the World Junior Championships 2012 though he was over-age and ineligible and provided supporting documentation to the AIU to verify his claim. On 8 July 2022, the AIU provisionally suspended Santos and, on 22 December 2022, issued him with a Notice of Charge regarding the alleged violations.
On 13 January 2023, Santos signed an admission and acceptance form regarding the violations in the Notice of Charge and, on 28 June 2023, the athlete further confessed to participating in a competition whilst ineligible on 11 March 2023. The three-year period therefore starts anew on the date of his participation whilst ineligible, i.e. on 11 March 2023, and will now end on 10 March 2026. He has accepted these consequences and waived his right to have them determined by the Disciplinary Tribunal at a hearing.
While this sanction disqualifies Santos’ gold-medal result at the World Junior Championships in July 2012, it does not affect the silver medal which he claimed in the 400 metres at the London 2012 Olympic Games the following month.
“This historic case was adjudicated under Rule 22.2 of the IAAF Competition Rules 2012- 2013 which states the athlete shall be disqualified from the competition and forfeit any titles or other awards from that competition,” explained Clothier.
“However, unlike with sanctions for doping violations, there was no 2012 rule that provided for the disqualification of future results in age-eligibility cases, so there is no basis on which to annul his Olympic result as that was not an age-group event and no violation was committed there.”
Additionally, he pointed out that Santos’ three-year sanction was determined under the relevant Competition Rule in 2012 (Rule 9) which provided for a range of sanction between two and four years. The AIU sought a four-year ban which was reduced to three years when Santos promptly admitted the charges.
Regarding the delay in announcing Santos’ sanction, Clothier disclosed this was due to ongoing investigations of third-party involvement in this matter, notably relating to the procurement of the ‘special passport’ for Santos.
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has taken decisive action to suspend Mr. Dmytro “SENSEi” Shvorak, Mr. Maksym “THRONE” Semenov, Mr. Artur “DarkS1DE” Kravchenko, and Mr. Danylo “nat1ve” Bakin, professional esports players, from all ESIC Member events for two years following investigations into teams Akuma, Project X and Majesty corroborating allegations of multiple breaches of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code and significant evidence of suspicious and unusual betting on matches involving these players.
Overview of the Case
The investigations into these individuals were prompted by betting evidence and confidential information confirming their involvement in match-fixing activities. These activities, contravening the ESIC Code of Conduct and Anti-Corruption Code, include:
- Dmytro “SENSEi” Shvorak’s attempted engagement in match-fixing activities during several LAN events with Team Project X.
- Maksym “THRONE” Semenov’s participation in match-fixing activities during a Bulgarian LAN event with Team Majesty between August and December 2020.
- Artur “DarkS1DE” Kravchenko’s involvement in similar activities during a Bulgarian LAN event with Team Majesty.
- Danylo “nat1ve” Bakin’s participation in match-fixing activities during the same Bulgarian LAN event with Team Majesty.
Collectively referred to as “Sanctioned Participants”.
Investigation and Charges
ESIC’s comprehensive investigation included examination of betting evidence from our Anti-Corruption Supporters, match analysis, witness corroboration and betting pattern analysis. Based on the findings, each individual was charged with breaches of the ESIC’s Anti-Corruption Code, particularly in relation to corruption and betting activities.
After collating and reviewing the evidence in light of the allegations, the Sanctioned Participants were charged with a breach of ESIC’s Anti-Corruption Code, particularly:
2.1 Corruption:
2.1.1 Fixing or contriving in any way or otherwise influencing improperly, or being a party to any effort to fix or contrive in any way or otherwise influence improperly, the result, progress, conduct, or any other aspect of any Match.
Section 3.1 (Anti-Corruption Code)
No participant shall engage in any form of betting, gambling, or similar activity that has the potential to create a conflict of interest.
And further offences under the ESIC Code of Conduct articles as follows;
2.4.5 Where the facts of the alleged incident are not adequately or clearly covered by any of the above offences, conduct that brings Esport, the Game, Event, ESIC or a Member into disrepute.
The Sanctioned Participants were each served with a Notice of Charge on 24 October 2023 and given an opportunity to respond. The Sanctioned Participants did not respond to the Notice of Charge.
Sanction Duration
In accordance with the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code, ESIC hereby issues a Rejection Order against each individual, effective from 24 October 2023 to 24 October 2025. During this period, they are prohibited from participating in any ESIC member events and must comply with all relevant provisions of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
Former West Indies player Marlon Samuels has been banned from all cricket for six years after an independent Anti-Corruption Tribunal found him guilty of breaching the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Anti-Corruption Code.
Samuels, who was charged by the ICC (in its capacity as the Designated Anti-Corruption Official under the ECB Code) in September 2021, was found guilty by the Tribunal in August this year of the following four offences:
Article 2.4.2 (by a majority decision) – Failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official, the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefit that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the Participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute.
Article 2.4.3 (unanimous decision)- Failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official receipt of hospitality with a value of US $750 or more.
Article 2.4.6 (unanimous decision) – Failing to cooperate with the Designated Anti-Corruption Official’s investigation.
Article 2.4.7 (unanimous decision) – Obstructing or delaying the Designated Anti-Corruption Official’s investigation by concealing information that may have been relevant to the investigation.
The ban takes effect from 11 November 2023.
Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – HR and Integrity Unit, said: “Samuels played international cricket for close to two decades, during which he participated in numerous anti-corruption sessions and knew exactly what his obligations were under the Anti-Corruption Codes.
“Though he is retired now, Mr Samuels was a participant when the offences were committed. The ban of six years will act as a strong deterrent to any participant who intends to break the rules.”
The Award on sanction (which has been redacted to protect the identities of the ICC’s witnesses and other third parties) is available here.
For the media release on the decision of the tribunal in August 2023, click here.
For the media release on the charges against Samuels in September 2021, click here.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that seven Belgian tennis players have been suspended from the sport after admitting to breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
The sanctions are linked to a recently concluded criminal case involving a match-fixing syndicate in Belgium. Collaboration between the ITIA and Belgian authorities led to a five-year custodial sentence for the leader of the syndicate, Grigor Sargsyan.
All seven players - Arnaud Graisse, Arthur de Greef, Julien Dubail, Romain Barbosa, Maxime Authom, Omar Salman, and Alec Witmeur - were convicted by the criminal court and have subsequently agreed sanctions with the ITIA.
Three players – Witmeur, de Greef and Barbosa - have been provisionally suspended by an AHO since May 2021 when they were formally charged in the criminal process in Belgium, as they were active players at that time. Time served under provisional suspension will be credited against these players’ periods of ineligibility. Witmeur admitted to six breaches of the TACP, while de Greef and Barbosa both admitted to nine breaches.
As such, their sanctions are as follows:
- Arthur de Greef, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 113 in 2017, has been suspended for three years and nine months, and fined $45,000 with $31,500 suspended. De Greef’s suspension ends on 26 February 2025.
- Romain Barbosa, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 403 in 2016, has been suspended for three years and nine months, and fined $45,000 – with $31,500 suspended. Barbosa’s suspension ends on 26 February 2025.
- Alec Witmeur, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 1056 in 2011, has been suspended for two years and seven months, and fined $30,000 – with $21,000 suspended. Witmeur’s suspension ends on 26 December 2023
For the remaining four players – Graisse (12 breaches), Dubail (nine breaches), Salman (six breaches) and Authom (six breaches) – the sanctions take effect from the date of their agreed sanction.
Their sanctions are as follows:
- Arnaud Graisse, unranked, has been suspended for four years and 10 months, and fined $60,000 - with $42,000 suspended. Graisse’s suspension began on 2 October 2023, and will end on 1 August 2028.
- Julien Dubail, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 371 in 2012, has been suspended for three years and nine months, and fined $45,000 – with $31,500 suspended. Dubail’s suspension began on 4 October 2023, and will end on 3 July 2027.
- Maxime Authom, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 143 in 2013, has been suspended for three years and nine months, and fined $30,000 – with $21,000 suspended. Authom’s suspension began on 28 October 2023 and will end on 27 July 2027.
- Omar Salman, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 464 in 2018, has been suspended for two years and seven months, and fined $30,000 – with $21,000 suspended. Salman’s suspension began on 9 October 2023, and will end on 8 May 2026.
These sanctions conclude ITIA proceedings against Belgian players in relation to the Sargsyan match-fixing ring, though syndicate cases relating to players from outside Belgium remain ongoing.
During the players’ suspensions, they are prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the members of the ITIA: ATP, ITF, WTA, Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon and US Open, or any national association.
The ITIA is an independent body established by its tennis members to promote, encourage, enhance and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has concluded its thorough investigation and is taking decisive action against the professional esports player known as Mr. Iddi for breaches of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code during a FIFA match against LEFTY on 8 May 2023.
After a comprehensive investigation, Mr. Iddi was served with a Formal Notice of Charge for violations of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code, specifically related to corrupt activities during his participation in an ESIC member’s FIFA match. The allegations are serious and include engaging in behavior that contravenes the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
Overview of the Case
Mr. Iddi is alleged to have engaged in activities that contravene the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code, which include, but are not limited to:
- Fixing or influencing improperly the result, progress, conduct, or any other aspect of a match.
- Ensuring for Betting or other corrupt purposes the occurrence of a particular incident in a match.
Investigation and Charges
The investigation process included an examination of betting records, account registrations, digital footprints, and betting patterns. ESIC extends its gratitude to its Anti-Corruption Supporter member betting operators for providing crucial evidence that contributed significantly to establishing the charges against Mr. Iddi.
Mr. Iddi is charged with breaching the following articles of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code:
2 .1 Corruption:
2.1.1 Fixing or contriving in any way or otherwise influencing improperly, or being a party to any agreement or effort to fix or contrive in any way or otherwise influence improperly, the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of any Match, including (without limitation) by deliberately underperforming therein.
2.1.2 Ensuring for Betting or other corrupt purposes the occurrence of a particular incident in a Match or Event.
2.1.3 Seeking, accepting, offering or agreeing to accept any bribe or other Reward to: (a) fix or to contrive in any way or otherwise to influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of any Match; or (b) ensure for Betting or other corrupt purposes the occurrence of a particular incident in a Match.
Further offences under the ESIC Code of Conduct articles as follows;
2.4.5 Where the facts of the alleged incident are not adequately or clearly covered by any of the above offences, conduct that brings Esport, the Game, Event, ESIC or a Member into disrepute.
Given the evidence presented and the opportunity for a plea bargain that would result in a reduced sanction, MR. IDDI has not yet engaged with the ESIC disciplinary process. Consequently, in adherence to ESIC’s regulatory framework and considering the severity of the charges, the Commission has no alternative but to proceed with the imposition of the sanctions as outlined in the Anti-Corruption Code.
Sanction Duration
The imposed sanction will be a ban of two years from the date of the initial Notice of Charge, ending at midnight on 14 June 2025. During this time, MR. IDDI is prohibited from participating in any capacity within ESIC member events.
The declaration recognises the work of the International Partnership Against Corruption in Sport (IPACS), and calls upon it to pursue its transversal and multi-stakeholder approach and enhance the implementation of the highest applicable standards aimed at combating corruption and promoting a culture of good governance in sport.
This declaration addresses the constantly evolving threats to sports integrity which undermine the potential of sport and its role as a social, educational, cultural and economic instrument.
It invites member states and sports organisations to “promote transparency, accountability, democracy and ethical behaviour in sport, including the establishment of robust governance systems, conflict-of-interest policies, whistle-blower protection mechanisms, effective investigation and prosecution of corruption, manipulation of competitions, violence and other infringements of human rights and the rule of law in the sport context.”
“The IOC and the Council of Europe have been working jointly for many years. We are therefore very pleased to see that this declaration recognises the many aspects of sports integrity that the IOC is promoting,” said IOC Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer Pâquerette Girard Zappelli. “Since its creation in 2017, IPACS has offered a unique and open platform for sports organisations and governments to develop pragmatic solutions to advance the fight against corruption in sport, while harnessing the expertise and experience of all actors.”
International Partnership Against Corruption in Sport
IPACS was launched at the IOC’s International Forum on Sports Integrity (IFSI) held in February 2017. It is a multi-stakeholder platform with the mission “to bring together international sports organisations, governments, inter-governmental organisations and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen and support efforts to eliminate corruption and promote a culture of good governance in and around sport”.
Interest in the Partnership has grown significantly since its creation, with its role and programmes discussed at numerous international events. For the first time, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) directly referred to IPACS in UNGA Resolution “Sport as an enabler of sustainable development” (A/77/L.28), adopted in December 2022.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that Swedish tennis player Dragos Nicolae Madaras has been provisionally suspended from the sport, pending the full consideration of Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP) charges.
Since 17 August 2023, the player has been prohibited from competing in or attending any sanctioned tennis events organised by the governing bodies of the sport.
The provisional suspension was imposed under Section F.3.b.i.1. of the TACP:
F.3.b.i.1. The Covered Person has failed to comply with a Demand
The player appealed against the imposition of the provisional suspension, but their appeal was dismissed by independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer Professor Richard McLaren on 22 September 2023.
The ITIA is an independent body established by the Governing Bodies of Tennis to promote, encourage, enhance and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The International Cricket Council (ICC), on behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), has charged eight players and officials for breaching different counts of the ECB Anti-Corruption Code for Participants for the T10 League (the ‘Code’).
The charges relate to the 2021 Abu Dhabi T10 Cricket League and attempts to corrupt matches in that tournament – these attempts were disrupted. The ICC was appointed by the ECB as the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (DACO) for the purposes of the ECB’s Code for this tournament and as such are issuing these charges on the ECB’s behalf.
Those charged are:
Krishan Kumar Chaudhary (co-owner of a team):
Article 2.4.5 – Failing to disclose to the DACO (without unnecessary delay) full details of any incident, fact, or matter that comes to the attention of a Participant that may evidence Corrupt Conduct under the Anti-Corruption Code by another Participant.
Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Article 2.4.7 – Obstructing or delaying a DACO investigation into possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Parag Sanghvi (co-owner of a team):
Article 2.2.1 - Placing bets on the results, progress, conduct or other aspect of International and Domestic Matches.
Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Ashar Zaidi (batting coach):
Article 2.1.1 – Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.
Article 2.1.4 – Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Article 2.1.
Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the DACO full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Rizwan Javed (domestic player):
Article 2.1.1 – Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.
Article 2.1.3 – Offering a Reward to another Participant in exchange for that player engaging in Corrupt Conduct.
Article 2.1.4 – Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Code Article 2.1.
Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the DACO full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Saliya Saman (domestic player):
Article 2.1.1 – Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.
Article 2.1.3 – Offering a Reward to another Participant in exchange for that player engaging in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Article 2.1.4 – Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Code Article 2.1.
Sunny Dhillon (assistant coach):
Article 2.1.1 – Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.
Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the DACO full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Nasir Hossain (Bangladesh player):
Article 2.4.3 – Failing to disclose to the DACO receipt of a gift worth over $ 750.
Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the DACO full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Shadab Ahamed (team manager):
Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.
Six of the charged - Krishan Kumar Chaudhary, Parag Sanghvi, Azhar Zaidi, Rizwan Javed, Saliya Saman and Sunny Dhillon - have been provisionally suspended and all have 14 days from 19 September 2023 to respond to the charges.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) today confirms that French tennis player Alexis Musialek has been banned from tennis for life following 39 breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP).
Musialek, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of 255 in 2015, denied all charges brought against them, but was found by independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer (AHO) Raj Parker to have been involved in the fixing of nine matches between 2016 and 2018, alongside failing to co-operate with an ITIA investigation by withholding evidence.
The 35-year-old was found to have - among other offenses - contrived the outcome of multiple matches, received money, benefit or consideration for contriving the outcome of these matches, and facilitated other players not to use their best efforts.
This case is the latest in a series of investigations pursued by the ITIA in conjunction with law enforcement in Belgium, which has seen a number of tennis players implicated in match-fixing incidents, and the leader of the scheme jailed for five years.
In this case, evidence from the Belgian proceedings supported intelligence gathered through parallel ITIA investigations and industry betting alerts.
As a result of this ruling, Musialek will be prohibited from playing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis event authorised or sanctioned by the governing bodies of tennis permanently. They have also been fined $50,000. The sanction is effective from 5 August 2023.
The ITIA is an independent body established by the International Governing Bodies of Tennis to promote, encourage, enhance, and safeguard the integrity of professional tennis worldwide.
The full decision can be accessed by clicking here.
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