Author: Vishwajit Sawant
Five players from clubs in Brazil’s top flight have been suspended amid an investigation into match-fixing. Pending the conclusion of the investigation by Goiás state lawyers, Athletico have suspended 20-year-old left-back Pedrinho and 22-year-old midfielder Bryan Garcia.
Other clubs, including Cruzeiro, Fluminense and América, have also suspended their players who are being investigated for their performances in matches during the 2022 season. The “Maximum Penalty” investigation that began in February could also involve Richard, Mendes and Paraíba, in addition to the five players already suspended.
The investigation initially selected matches from last season’s first division in Brazil, but is now also looking into matches from the second division. The athletes allegedly received payments of between R$50,000.00 and R$100,000.00 (US$10,000.00 to US$20,000.00) to receive cards or award penalties to their opponents, according to the prosecutors. The players being investigated have not commented on the matter, nor have they communicated via social media. The Associated Press made several requests for comment, but has yet to receive a response.
On Tuesday, Santos defender Eduardo Bauermann was suspended by the club for his suspected involvement in the match-fixing scheme revealed by TV Globo. Although prosecutors have confirmed that 16 people, including seven players, will be tried, they have not confirmed whether the five suspended players are part of the investigation.
The act of match-fixing represents a major threat to the credibility and honesty of sports. Authorities around the world are working to prevent and prosecute those who engage in such practices. The Brazilian authorities have taken a firm stance against match-fixing and have launched investigations into several high-profile cases in recent years. The latest investigation is likely to send a stern warning to players and clubs that such activities will not be tolerated and that those found guilty will face serious consequences.