Chinese Super League Faces Major Sanctions Amid Corruption Scandal

The previous season concluded with Shanghai Shenhua finishing just two points shy of champions Shanghai Port.

As the upcoming Chinese Super League season approaches, nine teams will begin with negative points due to sanctions resulting from an investigation into match-fixing, gambling, and corruption within the football industry.

Shanghai Shenhua, last season’s runners-up, faced the most severe penalty alongside Tianjin Tigers, both receiving a 10-point deduction. Four other teams that were penalized have already been relegated to China League One.

In total, 13 teams have been fined amounts ranging from approximately £21,000 to £104,000 (200,000 to one million yuan).

Authorities have implemented these sanctions following a thorough investigation into gambling-related activities and match manipulation. A statement from the Chinese Football Association (CFA) emphasized that the penalties aim to “uphold industry discipline, purify the football environment, and maintain fair competition.”

The CFA elaborated that the deductions and financial penalties were determined based on the scale, nature, seriousness, and social impact of the improper activities associated with each club. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to a “zero-tolerance” policy regarding corruption.

In a notable development in September 2024, 43 officials and players were issued lifetime bans. Among them was former Everton midfielder Li Tie, who, alongside 73 other individuals, was banned from football for life after confessing to involvement in match-fixing and bribery, including attempts to secure a prestigious coaching position.

As the league prepares for a tumultuous season, the repercussions of this corruption scandal continue to unfold.