The International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA) is partnering with leading betting operators in Canada to launch an athlete education program aimed at mitigating match-fixing and sports betting fraud. Operators Betway, bet365, and FanDuel are collectively investing at least CA$300,000 (US$219,830) to provide athletes with guidance and awareness on these critical issues. The announcement was made during the Symposium on Competition Manipulation and Gambling in Sport event in Toronto, highlighting the commitment to safeguarding the integrity of sports in the region.
Key Initiatives:
The athlete education program, set to launch in the second half of 2023, will encompass various essential components, including face-to-face training for athletes, an e-learning portal, the development of an anonymous reporting app, and the creation of awareness-raising materials. These initiatives are designed to equip athletes with the knowledge and resources needed to protect the integrity of sports and ensure fair competition.
Commitment to Sports Integrity:
Khalid Ali, CEO of the IBIA, expressed his delight at the commitment of member operators such as bet365, Betway, and FanDuel to sports betting education and their willingness to invest in this vital initiative. Anthony Werkman, CEO of Betway, emphasized the company’s dedication to combating any form of betting corruption, both on a global and local scale. The collaborative effort between members aims to create a more secure future for sports organizations and regulators.
Safety and Integrity in Sports:
Dale Hooper, General Manager of FanDuel Canada, stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of sport for the safety and enjoyment of all participants. In light of the recent regulation in the Canadian market, FanDuel is committed to supporting educational programs that enhance understanding and protection for athletes, bettors, and other stakeholders.
IBIA’s Global Initiatives:
In addition to this significant initiative in Canada, IBIA has also signed an integrity protection agreement with the Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming (IBJR). This partnership will strengthen monitoring against match-fixing and enhance reliability in sporting events and online betting in Brazil. IBIA members will provide exclusive data to support investigations and ensure the integrity of sports events worldwide.
Report on Integrity:
In February, IBIA published its report for 2022, revealing 268 alerts reported to sports governing bodies. This marked a 14% increase from the previous year and demonstrated a growing commitment to maintaining the integrity of sports and combating illicit activities in the betting industry.
The collaboration between IBIA and leading betting operators in Canada to establish an athlete education program underscores the collective commitment to protecting the integrity of sports. By investing in athlete training, e-learning resources, and awareness-raising materials, the initiative aims to empower athletes to play a role in preventing match-fixing and sports betting fraud. This partnership represents a significant step toward promoting fair competition and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of sports for all stakeholders.