The Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA) said on Friday it cannot take disciplinary action against a number of waterpolo players and a coach linked to betting allegations until it formally receives an official report from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).

In a statement issued in response to recent media reports, including a Times of Malta article, the ASA said it has requested access to the MGA report but has so far been unable to obtain it because there is currently no established legal channel through which such information can be transmitted.

The association said the necessary legal steps have now been initiated through the Office of the ASA Integrity Officer in order to secure the report lawfully.

"Until such time as the report is lawfully received, the ASA is not in a position to take disciplinary action, nor would it be appropriate to prejudge any individuals concerned," the association said, stressing the need to respect due process and safeguard the rights of all those involved.

Reaffirming its stance, the association said it has a zero-tolerance policy towards betting-related misconduct and insisted that once the report is received, it will act immediately in line with its own regulations and applicable international rules.

Last week, the MGA passed a detailed report to the police. Sources said the document names 14 individuals - 13 players and one coach, who is not connected to the national team - who allegedly placed bets on matches during the European Championship finals.

None of the individuals is believed to have placed bets on Malta matches.

While sports betting is not illegal for the general public, international sporting regulations strictly prohibit athletes from betting on competitions within their own discipline. In this case, if the allegations are confirmed, the matter is expected to fall under sporting disciplinary rules rather than criminal law, although it remains unclear whether any criminal charges could also follow.

The ASA said it will continue cooperating with the MGA, the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport, and the Malta Police Force, while urging responsible reporting as investigations continue.

If European Aquatics were to find the players and the coach guilty of betting on matches from the European Championship finals, they could face suspensions ranging from two to four years from all competitions.