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| [PHOTO: Special Arrangements] |
Rome: To more effectively combat match-fixing in football,
delegates at an INTERPOL conference have identified strong partnerships and
enhanced information exchange as key areas for further development.
The importance of consistent legislation globally in
relation to ‘sporting fraud’ was also highlighted by the some 200
representatives from law enforcement, international organizations including
FIFPro, Sportaccord, national football associations, national FA integrity
officers, players and referee representatives, betting organizations and
gambling regulatory authorities.
The two-day conference (17 and 18 January) entitled
‘Match-fixing: The ugly side of the beautiful game’ organized under the
auspices of the INTERPOL / FIFA Training, Education and Prevention initiative,
supported by the Italian Department of Public Security, UEFA and FIFA, also
underlined the need for coordination procedures at the national level.
The need to develop and implement a broad range of
prevention activities through education and training was also highlighted as
vital in protecting football from organized crime and professional criminals
which make billions from illegal betting through match-fixing and other
associated illegal activities.
The head of INTERPOL's Integrity in Sport unit, Michaela
Ragg, said the event provided 'a strong base to further advance the collective
fight against match-fixing'.
"By bringing together representatives from the widest
possible range of organizations involved in combating match-fixing, the
conference provided an opportunity to share expertise and identify best
practice to ensure that we all move forward together in tackling this global
problem," said Ragg.
The conference for representatives from national European
Football Associations and law enforcement was the first in a series being held
around the world, with an Asian regional meeting due to take place in Kuala
Lumpur in February.