An international investigation into Maltese waterpolo players has officially cleared its members of match-fixing allegations, though it has resulted in formal charges for 11 players and one official regarding illegal betting violations.
The Aquatics Integrity Unit (AQIU) of World Aquatics concluded its six-month probe this week, determining that while no match outcomes were manipulated, the individuals repeatedly violated strict integrity rules by placing wagers on water polo events.
The charges originate from January, when the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sports (AIMS) flagged suspicious online gambling activity. Subsequent reports suggested that national team players had placed bets on their own tournament fixtures during the European Waterpolo Championships in Belgrade. However, the formal investigation found no evidence of any attempt to improperly influence match results, such as the manipulation of goal differences.
Under the World Aquatics integrity code, athletes and team personnel are strictly prohibited from betting on their sport. The AQIU has offered the 12 individuals an opportunity to significantly reduce or suspend their proposed penalties - which range from one to four-month suspensions and fines of up to $1,000 - if they submit a written admission of their wrongdoing by 7 July.
In addition to potential suspensions, those found to be struggling with gambling addiction are required to undergo professional therapy, and all involved parties must commit to a five-year agreement to support educational integrity initiatives.
The Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA) expressed satisfaction that the integrity of their competitions remained uncompromised.
In a statement, the Aquatic Sports Association Malta said it was satisfied that the AQIU has confirmed that no evidence of match-fixing, match manipulation, or any attempt to improperly influence the outcome of any match could be identified.
However, the association said it takes "seriously the fact that the investigation did identify betting-related activities by individuals bound by the Integrity Code".
"While these activities did not, on the evidence before the AQIU, amount to manipulation of competitive results, any betting by covered persons raises legitimate integrity concerns and falls short of the standards the Association expects of those who represent Maltese aquatics. The ASA will continue to engage constructively with the AQIU and with the individuals concerned as they consider the responses open to them under the Code," the ASA said.