Canadian Premier League players get educated in anti-corruption

Bruna Garcia October 25, 2024

SiGMA news

Canadian Premier League players get educated in anti-corruption

The International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA) has successfully concluded its first year of a two-year player education initiative in the Canadian Premier League (CPL). The programme, designed to educate players about the dangers of match-fixing and other forms of corruption, has been lauded as a significant step toward safeguarding the integrity of the sport.

In partnership with the Professional Footballers’ Association Canada (PFA Canada), the IBIA conducted the “Protecting the Integrity of the Game” workshops for 173 CPL players from eight teams throughout the country between June and September. The programme covered a range of topics, including the risks associated with sports betting, an overview of betting rules and sanctions, and how to report suspected criminal behaviour.

It was an intensive educational programme consisting of dedicated in-person training and online resources. Sessions included the football teams of York United, Forge, Atletico Ottawa, HFX Wanderers, Valour, Pacific FC, Vancouver FC, as well as Cavalry. They took place in the provinces of Ontario, Nova Scotia, Manitoba, British Columbia and Alberta.

The red button

The IBIA’s Red Button app, a tool designed to facilitate anonymous reporting of corruption, was also introduced to the players. This technology enables athletes to report suspicious activity without fear of retribution.

The IBIA’s initiative is part of a wider three-year fund established by the organisation and its members, bet365, Betway, and FanDuel. This fund, totalling CA$ 300,000, will be used to educate the Canadian sports sector on the risks of corruption.

“Decades of experience has shown that a combination of efficient regulation, education and collaboration are essential to safeguarding the sports integrity ecosystem,” said Khalid Ali, CEO of IBIA.

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