Match-fixing scandal in Brazilian soccer: Criminal charges and penalties

The ongoing match-fixing scandal that has rocked Brazilian soccer continues to escalate, with new allegations reaching even the MLS.

Technology proves instrumental in identifying suspicious activity in sports betting

This week, six players from five teams in Brazil’s first division were fired on suspicion of participating in match-fixing in 2022, according to reports from Terra and other media outlets. These players were already part of an ongoing investigation that began over a year ago.

Among those charged for the alleged commission of a crime related to fraud in sports results is defender Eduardo Bauermann of Santos. The investigation has led to 16 people, including seven players, facing charges, with no end in sight.

Technology has been instrumental in identifying suspicious activity in sports betting, thanks to companies such as US Integrity and Genius Sports. It will soon become an essential tool for all sports, much like referees and whistles. In Brazil’s ongoing match-fixing scandal, six soccer players from five teams in the first division were fired on suspicion of participating in match-fixing in 2022.

The players are from Brazil, Argentina, and other countries, and they face up to six years in prison if found guilty of manipulating results. The criminal group allegedly offered to pay athletes between BRL10,000-20,000 ($2,022-$4,044) or as much as BRL100,000 ($20,200) for their involvement in match-fixing.

The separation of the soccer players from their clubs is part of “Operation Maximum Penalty,” an ongoing investigation by the prosecutor’s office in the state of Goias. The investigation began with Brazil’s second division and has now extended to larger tournaments, including the first division.

There is also evidence that the group could be manipulating competitions outside of Brazil. As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge.

The International Betting Integrity Association has highlighted the country’s issue with match-fixing, which has prompted Justice Minister Flavio Dino to announce a federal investigation into soccer match-fixing.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has also requested to consolidate various ongoing investigations, and CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues is prepared to take action against entire clubs if necessary. Dino expects the investigation to have international repercussions, stating that all those involved will be heavily penalised.

Rodrigues believes that the penalties should be even stiffer than they currently are, even for the smallest infraction.

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