The International Olympics Committee is working harder than ever to prevent match-fixing at the 2012 London Olympic Games. With several betting crime scandals taking place in Europe’s most renowned sporting leagues over the course of the past few years, it has become increasingly important for the IOC to introduce new measures to prevent match-fixing from taking place.
It seems that the Olympics are more vulnerable to match-fixing threats than ever before. All sports will be broadcasted; so, bookmakers can offer odds on every event. This gives criminals even more chances to compromise the integrity of the London 2012 Olympics, and the IOC is not about to let that happen.
The latest provision from the IOC is a new organization which represents 320 different sports regulatory bodies from around the world. It will launch a code of practice that all professionals involved in the games must adhere by, along with a website informing the public of the code. It will guide athletes, coaches and managers on an acceptable code of conduct for betting activity during the 2012 London Olympics, and it is hoped that the effort will be sufficient.
The code of practice ensures:
• All sports have adequate rules and regulations.
• An official will deal with any issues that arise.
• An integrity unit is established.
• A comprehensive education program is established.
• Contracts clearly specify athlete and coach obligations.
• Bookmakers enter into information-sharing agreements.
Together, all six obligations aim to ensure that this year’s London Olympics are free of any sort of betting scandals or match-fixing crimes. As this type of crime has climbed the ranks over the course of the past years, affecting more and more prestigious leagues, the Olympics are a likely target to match-fixers. The IOC hopes that the code of practice will keep such individuals away from the games, but only time will tell how effective it truly is.
