Match-fixing: responsibility and consequences

Aim. The paper aims to identify the types and proportionality of responsibility for participation in fixed matches, as well as to assess the consequences of a particular punishment for an athlete. Materials and methods. The paper involves the analysis of international and Russian normative acts that establish responsibility for unlawful influence on the outcome of sports events. Doctrinal approaches to the concept and essence of match-fixing, its possible schemes, and the empirical basis for the application of relevant legislation were studied. A set of analytical methods was used for the purpose of the study. Result. It was found that there was no single approach to the concept of “match-fixing”, and the decisions on match-fixing cases and corresponding responsibility were made at different levels. The most common type of disciplinary responsibility is disqualification from competition. At the same time, this punishment can have serious consequences for athletic career. Criminal penalties have not yet been properly implemented. Conclusion. Conclusions are drawn about the lack of effectiveness of sanctions for match-fixing, while a fair punishment of match-fixing cases would be a deterrent for those involved in professional sport.