Orlando Pirates has released a statement following a video of its players that has been making rounds on social media appearing to be discussing betting on the English Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal that took place this past Sunday.
The video was met with public outcry as the FIFA Code of Conduct forbids players from directly and indirectly participating in betting/gambling activities related to football matches and competitions.
Read https://inside.fifa.com/legal/integrity/betting-in-football
In the statement, Pirates states that the players did not place any bets and that the club is well aware of the regulations related to betting. They added that an internal investigation will be undertaken due to the seriousness of the matter.
Here’s the full Orlando Pirates statement:
“The Club has noted a video circulating on social media involving two of our players discussing betting.
We would like to clarify that the players in the video did not place any bets. The video captured a light-hearted moment among teammates purporting to have placed a bet on an English Premiership match.
As a Club, we are fully aware of the regulations regarding betting. Betting on any sport is strictly prohibited for any professional player.
However, we have addressed the matter with the players involved, emphasising that even in jest, such discussions can have serious implications.
The Club has reiterated the importance of adhering to betting regulations to avoid any potential long-term consequences.
The players recognise their error in judgment and have since apologised. However, due to the seriousness of this matter, the Club has instituted its own internal investigation to ensure that no player is involved in any form of sports betting as this would constitute a breach in the club handbook that all players are signatory to.”
Written by Siphesihle Soni
Also read https://www.sbnews.co.za/can-you-investigate-their-bets-against-richards-bay/