Badminton World Federation bans four Chinese doubles players for ‘irregular match results’ at 2018 Fuzhou China Open
- World governing body’s independent hearing panel strips He, Tan, Li and Liu of prize money after investigation
- ‘Another absolutely embarrassing all-Chinese match,’ Danish player Vittinghus wrote at the time
The Badminton World Federation (BWF) issued bans to four Chinese men’s doubles stars for violating its code of conduct at a mainland tournament three years ago.
He Jiting, Tan Qiang, Liu Yuchen and recently retired Li Junhui were found to have violated the BWF code of conduct over “betting wagering and irregular match results” at the Fuzhou China Open 2018, the governing said in a statement.
BWF’s independent hearing panel confirmed the bans from “all badminton-related activities to each player”.
The players are required to forfeit their respective prize money from the event – partners He and Tan’s winning amounted to US$12,250 and Li and Liu US$2,187.50.
The sentences have been suspended for a “probationary period of two years” starting on January 25, with any repeat offences within the probation causing the ban to take effect.
The athletes may appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration of Sport within the notice period, but BWF confirmed “no appeal was lodged”.
The Chinese Badminton Association released an official statement on the ruling, confirming the outcome and saying it “will continue to strengthen, educate and manage the team to ensure the athletes cherish every opportunity to compete.”
