Investigation In The Netherlands
Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch Gaming Authority, has started an investigation into potential match-fixing in the sports-betting markets. The investigation is focused on sports betting and amateur clubs in the country, with competitions like the Toto KNVB Cup coming under the spotlight.
Bets Placed on Amateur Teams
The KSA has stated that sports betting operators in the country can not just offer odds on any match, and that doing so poses potential risks of match-fixing. It has defined match-fixing as anything that can influence or partially influence the outcome of any sport.
Match-fixing, the KSA has said, can lead to major issues, including fraud, bribery, and money laundering. As part of the investigation, several operators have come forward with information on amateur team sports betting, providing analysis of each.
After discovering bets had been placed on amateur teams, the KSA stated that the identification and analysis of potential match-fixing situations needs to be better.
Following its initial investigation, the KSA has said that there needs to be more consistency across the board with identifying risks and analysis of potential match-fixing in amateur sports teams. It concluded that not all operators were taking the same precautions, with some not doing their due diligence in terms of analysis and identification.
A Strict Market
Since opening its doors in October 2022, the Dutch market has been one of the most strictly regulated in the world, with the KSA determined to maintain a high standard of safety, security, and fairness.
It has stated any penalties handed out to those involved in match-fixing will be severe. Match-fixing is something that has reared its head in the Dutch market on multiple occasions, with 40 potential cases being reported to the authority back at the start of 2023 within months of the market opening.
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