ASA Says No Match-Fixing Evidence Found In Water Polo Betting Probe

The Aquatic Sports Association (ASA) has said there is no prima facie evidence of match-fixing or coordinated illegal activity following reports linking members of Malta’s water polo community to a major betting investigation.

The statement was issued after a Times of Malta report revealed findings from a Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) investigation that identified 15 individuals connected to local water polo, including national team players, as persons of interest.

According to the report, the MGA flagged a number of suspicious betting patterns, including wagers placed on Malta national team matches, synchronised betting activity and significant betting volumes by some individuals.

Despite this, the ASA said that based on the reports and evidence available to it, there is currently no indication of match-fixing or activity requiring a criminal investigation.

The association added that it has remained in close contact with European Aquatics and World Aquatics throughout the process, with World Aquatics now leading the investigation. A hearing is expected to take place later this month.

The ASA also announced plans to introduce further education and awareness programmes on sports betting for clubs and players.

What do you make of the ASA’s response?

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Dylan Attard

Dylan Attard is a Social Media Executive at Lovin Malta and a proud Gozitan with a passion for digital media, content creation, and social trends. Outside of work, you’ll usually find him at the gym, watching series and keeping up with everything happening online.