The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) has launched a major offensive against illegal betting and match-fixing, taking legal action and implementing stricter measures to clean up the sport. With multiple players already handed severe suspensions, authorities are now seeking legislative support to escalate their fight against corruption in Mexican soccer.
Seven Players Receive Harsh Suspensions
The FMF didn’t hold back when it came to punishing those involved in manipulating matches. Seven players from Real Apodaca and Correcaminos were hit with a combined 57 years of suspension, making it clear that authorities are taking this matter seriously. These punishments were issued based on multiple regulations, including Appendix IV of the FMF Sanctions Regulations, as well as key articles from FIFA and FMF’s Code of Ethics.
This move sends a strong warning to players and clubs: the federation is watching, and consequences will be severe. But are these bans enough to deter future infractions?
Formal Complaint Filed With Attorney General’s Office
Beyond internal disciplinary action, the FMF is taking things to the next level. It has officially filed a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office (FGR), aiming to identify and prosecute those responsible for illegal betting networks operating in the second division.
While sports organizations can impose suspensions and fines, true accountability often requires government intervention. The FMF’s move to involve federal authorities suggests they believe this issue runs deeper than a few rogue players.
FIFA and Genius Sports Join the Effort
The federation isn’t going at it alone. It has already notified FIFA about the sanctions, ensuring they are recognized internationally. This means that the suspended players won’t find a loophole by moving to another country’s league.
Additionally, FMF has strengthened its monitoring system through Genius Sports, a global company specializing in detecting irregular betting patterns. By analyzing real-time data and flagging suspicious activity, this partnership aims to catch potential match-fixing before it spreads.
Warning Issued to All Mexican Soccer Leagues
On February 19, the FMF sent a formal warning to league presidents across all divisions, including the amateur sector. The message was clear: illegal betting and match manipulation won’t be tolerated at any level of Mexican soccer.
Some key points from the warning included:
- The severe consequences for those involved in match-fixing, including lifetime bans and criminal charges.
- The FMF’s commitment to stricter monitoring and data tracking.
- A reminder that the integrity of the sport is at stake, and clubs must actively cooperate to prevent corruption.
With these warnings in place, the FMF is hoping to prevent future scandals before they emerge.
A Push for Stronger Laws and Tougher Penalties
Beyond immediate action, the FMF is looking to the future. The organization is now lobbying Congress to introduce legislation that would impose harsher penalties on individuals involved in illegal betting and match-fixing.
Currently, Mexico’s legal framework lacks strong deterrents for these crimes. While match-fixing can result in bans from soccer, legal consequences have been relatively weak. By pushing for tougher laws, the FMF aims to make the risks of engaging in match-fixing far outweigh the potential rewards.
A Global Fight Against Corruption in Soccer
The FMF’s actions align with a broader international movement to clean up professional sports. Since 2021, the organization has been working with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime under the Global Program to Safeguard Sport from Corruption and Economic Crimes.
By adopting global best practices, Mexican soccer authorities hope to create a system that not only detects but actively prevents corruption from taking hold.
What Comes Next?
With suspensions already in place, legal action pending, and policy changes on the horizon, the FMF has set the stage for a long-term battle against corruption. However, whether these measures will truly curb illegal betting remains to be seen.
For now, Mexican soccer is at a turning point. The crackdown has begun, but the real test will be ensuring these efforts lead to lasting change.
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