Official statement: Brazilian soccer hit with criminal charges and penalties following match-fixing scandal
Official Statement: We regret to inform that six players from five prominent teams in Brazil’s first division have been terminated for suspected involvement in match-fixing in 2022. According to reports from Terra and other media outlets, these players were already being investigated for over a year.
Notably, defender Eduardo Bauermann of Santos is among the players charged for the alleged commission of a crime related to sports result manipulation. This investigation has resulted in 16 people facing charges, including seven players, with no immediate resolution in sight. We condemn all forms of fraud and take this matter seriously.
The integration of technology, namely companies like US Integrity and Genius Sports, has been a game-changer in detecting suspicious activity within sports betting. In the same way that referees and whistles are essential tools in sports, technology has quickly become a necessary component. The recent scandal in Brazil involving match-fixing highlights the dire consequences facing players from various countries if found guilty of manipulating results. Criminal organizations allegedly offered athletes sums ranging from BRL10,000-20,000 ($2,022-$4,044), with some being offered as much as BRL100,000 ($20,200) to participate. If found guilty, these players could face up to six years in prison.
As part of “Operation Maximum Penalty,” an ongoing investigation by the state of Goias’ prosecutor’s office, soccer players and their clubs have been separated. Initially focused on Brazil’s second division, the investigation has now expanded to larger tournaments, including the first division. The group under investigation is suspected of manipulating competitions outside of Brazil as well, with further details expected to emerge in due course.
In response to concerns raised by the International Betting Integrity Association, Justice Minister Flavio Dino has announced a federal investigation into soccer match-fixing in Brazil. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has also requested to combine ongoing investigations, with CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues prepared to take action against clubs if necessary. Penalties for any wrongdoing will be severe, as Dino expects the investigation to have international implications. Rodrigues urges even stricter consequences for any wrongdoing, including minor infractions.