17 banned over match-fixing in Romania

Saturday 28th of May 2016

Romania's football federation (FRF) has reportedly imposed bans on three coaches and 14 players at second division Gloria Buzau over match-fixing allegations, Reuters reports.

Coach Viorel Ion and assistants Marian Rosu and Romeo Bunica have been reportedly suspended from taking part in soccer-related activities for two years and were fined 200,000 lei (US$49,000) each, said the FRF's disciplinary committee in a statement.

Ion said he would appeal. "I will fight to the end and the truth will prevail," Ion wrote on Facebook last week, denying any wrongdoing.

Fourteen Gloria players were suspended for between two and 12 months and fined between 10,000 and 50,000 lei.

Marius Sumudica, coach of Romanian champions Astra, will also serve a two-month ban at the start of next season for placing bets on domestic and international matches, which is prohibited in Romania.

Andreas Krannich, MD Security Services at Sportradar AG who was involved in the case said: “A first instance disciplinary hearing in Romania against 17 individuals linked with Gloria Buzau FC was completed this week. Our BFDS Reports and expert testimony proved pivotal in securing the sanctions that included a range of bans and fines. We remain committed to supporting any and all cases brought by our partner UEFA or any of their Member Associations.”

Costin Negraru, Integrity Manager at the Romanian Football Federation said: “We sincerely hope this decision at first instance and the sanctions that have been imposed show our commitment to the integrity of football in our country. At this point, we would like to thank UEFA and Sportradar for their information, insights and support. Their joint efforts were crucial in building our case, confirming our concerns and providing testimony.”

Sports Betting Ban Match-fixing Illegal Corruption Players