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Crime in Hong Kong
Opinion
SCMP Editorial
Editorial
SCMP Editorial

Stamp out corruption so Hong Kong football can soar

Match-fixing and gambling scandals in recent months show much work must be done to put Hong Kong football on a firm foundation for growth

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Supporters cheer for Hong Kong team in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers match between Hong Kong and Bangladesh, held at Kai Tak Stadium, on October 14, 2025. Photo: Sam Tsang
SCMP Editorial
Editorials represent the views of the South China Morning Post on the issues of the day.
The Fifa World Cup is providing football fans with excitement and entertainment. Enthusiasm in Hong Kong for the competition has, however, been marred by yet another match-fixing and illegal gambling scandal involving members of the local football community. Some of the suspected illicit bets placed involved World Cup matches, but the allegations go much further.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and the police made 19 arrests last week, smashing an unlawful betting syndicate. Two prominent coaches, six first division footballers and a former player were among those apprehended.

At least five clubs are involved, and the ICAC says it found irregularities at four first division matches plus an under-22 game. It is alleged more than HK$6 million (US$765,000) in illicit bets were placed over three years. The legal process must now take its course and the full facts be established, but the crackdown, once again, shines a spotlight on a problem that has plagued the city’s football scene for years.

Two players and a betting agent were jailed for up to 17 months in May in another serious match-fixing case. The ICAC reviewed the Football Association of Hong Kong, China’s code of ethics and guidelines in light of that case. Now, there is another investigation to contend with. Magistrate Peter Yu Chun-cheung said such behaviour erodes public confidence in Hong Kong football, damages its reputation and holds back development. He is right about that.

The Football Association has reiterated its “zero tolerance” policy towards such conduct and is working with the ICAC to identify suspicious activity at matches.

Progress appears to have been made in keeping the top-flight Premier League clean. However, problems continue to arise with lower-level games.

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