Major police operation in Czech football – dozens arrested on suspicion of corruption
The football association’s ethics committee plans to initiate proceedings against 47 individuals today
Foto: Danish Ibrahim | Unsplash
An unprecedented police operation is currently shaking Czech football. Authorities have already arrested dozens of individuals – the focus is on alleged match-fixing in connection with sports betting. Matches affected reportedly range from the top league down to youth competitions.
Updated at 11:25 – Since the early morning hours, a large-scale police operation has been underway which, according to the Czech Football Association (FAČR), is likely the most extensive in the country’s history to date. As reported by the Czech news server isport.blesk.cz, the investigation involves not only the Czech police but also Europol and Interpol. The measures are also being carried out in coordination with UEFA’s Anti-Match-Fixing Unit.
FAČR President David Trunda informed members of the executive committee this morning about the ongoing operation. According to him, the investigation is primarily focused on Moravia and involves several dozen suspects. The operation is, according to the association, the result of three years of cooperation between the FAČR and the police.
The football association’s ethics committee intends to initiate proceedings against 47 individuals today – including players, officials, referees and clubs. Not only lower-tier competitions are affected, but also clubs from the top division as well as youth leagues.
In some cases, suspicions go beyond simple betting manipulation. Investigators are examining whether matches were deliberately influenced to produce specific results. The incidents under investigation are said to date back to 2023.
According to FAČR President Trunda, further details cannot be disclosed as the operation is still ongoing. Oversight of the legality of the pre-trial proceedings lies with the High Public Prosecutor’s Office in Olomouc, which has reserved the right to inform the public about the relevant criminal cases as part of the investigation.
