Corruption in Chinese soccer has been a longstanding issue, with reports of payoffs to players and referees to influence match outcomes. These officials were accused of accepting bribes and committing financial crimes, leading to sentences ranging from eight years to life in prison for those involved. Chen Xuyuan, the former president of the Chinese Football Association, received a life sentence for his involvement in match-fixing and financial crimes.
The football industry in China has faced significant challenges due to economic slowdowns and government intervention in sports, culture, and private enterprises. The Chinese Football Association Super League is largely backed by real estate firms but has faced financial instability as these companies struggle to deliver finished apartments or pay back debts. The payments made to players aiming to enhance the league’s brand and potential in China and internationally have faced challenges due to concerns about the financial health of real estate firms.
Other high-ranking officials who were sentenced to prison for accepting bribes include the former head of the National Athletics Association, Hong Chen, and former high-ranking soccer official Chen Yongliang. The court ordered the confiscation of all of Chen’s personal property and the recovery of his illegal gains to be turned over to the state treasury.
The sport’s struggles in China are further compounded by concerns about payoffs made to secure spots for players in training camps, including the national men’s squad, which is currently ranked 88th by FIFA. The women’s national team holds the 19th spot. Despite these challenges, China continues its efforts to improve its competitiveness and success on the global stage of soccer programs.
