Amidst a nationwide crackdown on sports corruption in China, the former president of the Chinese Football Association has been sentenced to life in prison. The Communist Party-controlled sports programs in China have come under intense scrutiny, with officials accused of taking bribes and committing financial crimes.
Chen Xuyuan, the former CFA president, was found guilty of match-fixing and financial crimes and received a life sentence. Other high-ranking officials, including the former head of the National Athletics Association and former high-ranking soccer officials, have also been sentenced to prison for accepting bribes.
The Chinese Football Association Super League, largely backed by real estate firms, has faced significant financial instability. Concerns about the financial health of China’s economy have affected payments to players and hopes for international recognition. Despite earlier successes, the national men’s and women’s teams have struggled in international competitions due to corruption in the sport that has led to payoffs to players and referees to influence game outcomes.
Additionally, allegations of payments made to secure spots for players at training camps for top teams have been reported. The challenges facing Chinese soccer are exacerbated by economic slowdowns and government involvement in sports, culture, and private business. The efforts to improve the success of China’s soccer programs have been hindered by these factors.
