Progress in the fight against fraudulent activities in sport
The global sports industry has reached a significant milestone in 2024. Sportradar's new integrity report shows a 17% decrease in suspicious matches. After years of increasing numbers, this indicates positive developments in the fight against fraud. A total of 1.108 matches were classified as suspicious across 12 sports and 95 countries. This marks significant progress and underlines the success of joint efforts. This decrease proves that continued investment in monitoring technologies and collaboration is having an impact.
Europe, which has often been considered a hotbed of fraudulent activity, has seen great success. The number of suspicious games there has fallen by 34%. With only 439 suspicious cases, the impact of strict regulatory measures and improved monitoring systems is evident. Sports organizations and betting providers, who work closely with technology providers such as Sportradar, are particularly active here.
Africa also saw progress, with the number of suspicious games falling by 36% to just 69 cases in 2024. This decline highlights how targeted initiatives can help address vulnerabilities.
Sportradar: Progress in Football
Football, which is considered particularly at risk due to its high betting volume, has made remarkable progress. The number of suspicious matches fell by 18%. The development in Brazil is particularly impressive. Here, the number of suspicious football matches fell by 48%. From 110 suspicious matches previously, only 2024 cases remained in 57. This development is the result of intensive education and prevention measures. Sportradar has successfully introduced technologies such as the Universal Fraud Detection System (UFDS) in Brazil. This system combines artificial intelligence and data analysis to detect suspicious betting patterns.
Despite these advances, risks remain. The risk remains particularly high in smaller leagues and less visible competitions, where the necessary resources to prevent fraudulent activities are often lacking. In addition, criminal networks are constantly adapting to exploit new vulnerabilities.
“Even though the numbers are declining, the threat of cheating in sport remains real.”
A holistic approach remains needed to address these challenges, including stronger legal frameworks, targeted education and better international cooperation. Sports organisations must also promote transparency and accountability to increase fan trust.
Future prospects
The decline in fraudulent activity in 2024 is a step in the right direction. But the road to complete elimination remains long. Innovation and collaboration remain the keys to success. Sportradar plans to further develop the technologies used and expand educational programs.
“Protecting the integrity of sport is a shared responsibility that requires continuous vigilance.”
In the long term, it will be crucial that the sports industry intensifies its efforts. With modern technologies, international cooperation and a clear focus on integrity, sport can preserve its fundamental values.
The decline in flashy games shows that progress is possible when everyone works together. However, the challenge remains and only through constant innovation and global cooperation can the spirit of fair competition be maintained.