The Chinese Football Association (CFA) announced on 29/1 these bans following a large-scale investigation into match-fixing, illegal betting, and corruption within football.

During a press conference in Beijing, the CFA, in collaboration with the Public Security Ministry and the General Administration of Sport of China, revealed the outcomes of a special campaign against misconduct in the football sector. The CFA stated that these penalties are based on legally effective judicial rulings and verification results from relevant authorities.

Former coach Li Tie during the match between China and Japan at Khalifa Stadium, Doha, Qatar, for the Asian qualifiers of the 2022 World Cup, on the evening of 7/9/2021. *Photo: Reuters*

Among the 73 individuals banned for life are Chen Xuyuan, former CFA chairman, and Li Tie, former coach of the Chinese national team. The CFA stated that these individuals' "criminal acts have been confirmed by legally effective judgments," resulting in a permanent ban from all football-related activities, regardless of their role or title.

Beyond this group of 73, three other individuals were found to have engaged in illegal activities but were not criminally prosecuted by decision of the prosecuting authority. Nevertheless, the CFA imposed a 5-year ban on these individuals, prohibiting them from participating in any football activities during the disciplinary period.

Li Tie represents a prominent case in China's football crackdown. The former Everton midfielder was sentenced to 20 years in prison in late 2024 for multiple offenses related to bribery and match-fixing.

According to Chinese prosecutors, between 2015 and 2021, Li received over 110 million yuan (more than 411 billion VND) in bribes. He also paid approximately 3 million yuan (11 billion VND) to be appointed national team coach in 2019. Furthermore, he was implicated in match-fixing cases totaling over 39 million yuan (145 billion VND), along with other bribery incidents during his time with various clubs.

Meanwhile, Chen Xuyuan received a life sentence, lifelong deprivation of political rights, and confiscation of all personal assets. The former CFA chairman was found to have accepted approximately 81 million yuan (302 billion VND) in bribes between 2010 and 2023, including his tenure as a leader at Shanghai International Port Group and later as head of the CFA. Specifically, from 2019 to 2021, Chen received 16 million yuan (59 billion VND) from football clubs.

In parallel with individual sanctions, the CFA also imposed strict disciplinary measures on clubs. 13 professional teams will face point deductions and fines starting from the 2026 season. The penalized teams include major names such as Shanghai Shenhua, Shanghai Port, Tianjin Jinmen Tiger, and Beijing Guoan.

According to the announcement, the extent of point deductions and fines is determined by "the value of illicit transactions, the nature, severity, and social impact" of each case. These point deductions will be applied directly to the 2026 season standings, aiming to ensure deterrence and fair play.

A representative from China's Public Security Ministry affirmed that the agency will continue to collaborate closely with sports management units to maintain high pressure in law enforcement, resolutely cracking down on illegal betting, match-fixing, and corruption related to football. The General Administration of Sport of China also declared this as evidence of its determination to rectify professional ethics and discipline in professional football.

The CFA emphasized its zero-tolerance stance against all violations, while continuing to tighten supervision over local federations, league organizers, and clubs. The campaign's objective is not only to address misconduct but also to prevent recurrence and restore public trust in Chinese football.

Xuan Binh (according to CNA, Athletic)