In the wake of a widespread crackdown on gambling and graft in the world of Chinese soccer, dozens of individuals have been handed bans and hefty fines by the Chinese Football Association (CFA). The crackdown, which began earlier this year, is aimed at cleaning up the sport in China and restoring its integrity.
The CFA announced on Tuesday that 27 individuals, including players, coaches, referees, and club officials, have been banned from participating in any football-related activities for various periods of time. Additionally, those banned have been fined sums ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yuan.
Among those banned is former Chinese national team player and coach Li Xiaopeng, who has been handed a two-year ban for his involvement in illegal gambling activities. Li, who retired from playing in 2013 and went on to coach several club teams, including Shandong Luneng Taishan, has denied any wrongdoing.
In a statement released by the CFA, the association said that the crackdown is part of a broader effort to stamp out corruption and illegal activities in Chinese soccer. The association has warned that any individuals found to be involved in such activities will face severe punishment, including lifetime bans from the sport.
The crackdown comes amid growing concerns about the influence of gambling and graft on Chinese soccer. In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases of match-fixing, bribery, and other illegal activities in the sport. The CFA has been working closely with law enforcement agencies to root out corruption and ensure a fair and clean playing field for all.
So far, the crackdown has received widespread support from fans, players, and officials within the Chinese soccer community. Many have applauded the CFA for taking decisive action to clean up the sport and create a more transparent and fair environment for all involved.
As the bans and fines continue to be handed out, it remains to be seen what impact this crackdown will have on Chinese soccer in the long run. However, one thing is clear: the CFA is committed to restoring the integrity of the sport and ensuring that all participants play by the rules.