​The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) notes that the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) arrested 12 coaches and players of football clubs in the Hong Kong Premier League (HKPL) and the Second Division of Hong Kong on Monday (May 27), who were allegedly bribed for match-fixing to facilitate profiting from illegal gambling. Match-fixing is not only illegal, but also contrary to the principle of fair play in sports, which we absolutely cannot tolerate.

     As per CSTB's request, the Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) has recently completed its mid-term review with a view to further promoting Hong Kong's football development. The HKFA is implementing a series of improvement measures, including strengthening its collaboration with the ICAC, enhancing clubs' awareness on corruption prevention, and requiring the clubs to review the professional ethics of coaches and players on a regular basis. The CSTB will urge the HKFA to implement these measures as soon as possible.

     In light of the seriousness of the incident, the CSTB has requested the HKFA to invite the ICAC to conduct a comprehensive review on the arrangements of the HKPL as well as leagues of other divisions with a view to keeping corruption out to ensure a fair and clean environment for football development in Hong Kong.

Ends/Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Issued at HKT 20:29

NNNN