Integriball 2.0 Completes Fact-Finding Missions in Estonia, Romania, and Georgia to Safeguard Football Integrity!

The Integriball program, dedicated to promoting integrity and inclusivity within football, has successfully completed its fact-finding missions in Estonia, Romania, and Georgia. These missions, conducted in close collaboration with the respective football federations of each country and supported by partner organizations United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS) and Berkeley Global Society (BGS), mark a significant milestone in the initiative's ongoing efforts to safeguard the integrity of the sport.

About the Fact-Finding Missions

Led by the CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity and supported by UEFA, the Integriball program aims to develop programs focused on safeguarding, combating match-fixing, and protecting whistleblowers across multiple countries. The fact-finding missions in Estonia, Romania, and Georgia were crucial steps in assessing the current level of knowledge and understanding within the football communities of these nations.

·        In Estonia, the mission was hosted by the Estonian Football Association (Eesti Jalgpalli Liit), where stakeholders engaged in comprehensive discussions and assessments to identify areas of improvement and strategies for enhancing integrity measures within the sport. "We are grateful for the opportunity to participate in this vital initiative and look forward to continuing our partnership with CSCF in creating a safer and more ethical environment for football in Estonia," said a representative from EJL.

·        Similarly, in Romania, the Federatia Romana de Fotbal facilitated productive discussions and exchanges, allowing for a thorough examination of the existing landscape and the formulation of targeted interventions to address any identified challenges. "As representatives of the Federatia Romana de Fotbal, we are honored to collaborate with CSCF and other stakeholders in this important endeavor. Together, we are working towards a future where integrity is paramount in Romanian football," stated a representative from FRF.

·       In Georgia, the Georgian Football Federation played a pivotal role in coordinating the fact-finding mission, fostering an environment conducive to open dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders. "This collaborative effort has been instrumental in advancing integrity within football, and we are thankful for the opportunity to be part of such an impactful initiative. We look forward to furthering our partnership with all stakeholders to uphold the values of integrity and inclusivity in Georgian football," expressed a representative from GFF.

Throughout these missions, the Integriball program underscored its commitment to protecting football, particularly its most vulnerable groups, by ensuring that integrity remains a top priority in the development and governance of the sport. "I am thrilled to witness the impactful outcomes of the Integriball program. Through collaborative efforts with our esteemed partners and the dedicated football federations of Estonia, Romania, and Georgia, we have successfully completed fact-finding missions aimed at enhancing integrity within football," said Norbert Rubicsek, director at CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity. "These missions have provided invaluable insights that will inform future initiatives and reinforce our commitment to promoting integrity and inclusivity within the sport. I extend my sincere gratitude to all involved for their unwavering dedication and look forward to the continued success and impact of the Integriball program."

About CSCF

The CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity is an organization committed to enhancing integrity, transparency, and ethics in sports across the globe. We offer education, advice, and risk management support to sports organizations, law enforcement, governmental bodies, and the betting industry, addressing key ethical and integrity challenges. As Integriball 2.0 coordinators and a premier content provider, we drive this unique initiative, committed to the cause of sports integrity.

About Integriball 2.0 Country Partners

·        Eesti Jalgpalli Liit (EJL): EJL, or the Estonian Football Association, is the governing body for football in Estonia. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, EJL represents the importance of integrity in sports governance at a national level. By ensuring fair play, transparency, and ethical conduct within Estonian football, EJL contributes to fostering integrity both on and off the field.

·        Georgian Football Federation (GFF): GFF serves as the governing body for football in Georgia. Through its involvement in Integriball 2.0, GFF emphasizes the significance of integrity in sports development within the country. By promoting integrity in football administration, player conduct, and fan engagement, GFF plays a crucial role in upholding the values of fairness and honesty in Georgian football.

·        Federatia Romana De Fotbal (FRF): FRF, or the Romanian Football Federation, is responsible for overseeing football activities in Romania. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, FRF underscores the importance of integrity in football governance and competition. FRF's commitment to combating corruption, match-fixing, and other integrity-related issues within Romanian football highlights its dedication to preserving the sport's credibility and ethical standards.

Integriball 2.0's ambition goes beyond national borders, with support from UEFA and involvement across three countries, including Estonia, Georgia, and Romania. By disseminating vital knowledge and resources, the project endeavors to create a more ethically sound and secure environment for football participation, ensuring accessibility and empowerment for all.

For further information about Integriball 2.0 and opportunities for involvement, please contact: Integriball2.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Successful Integrisport 3.0 awareness raising practical session in Romania marks an important conclusion

Bucharest, Romania - April 12, 2024 - Integrisport 3.0, an innovative project aimed at providing awareness and training to law enforcement agencies, judicial authorities, and other stakeholders on all aspects of sports and esports manipulations and crimes in sports, has concluded its series of awareness-raising practical sessions with a remarkable event in Romania.

About the event


In a significant step towards combating manipulation and criminality in sports, Romania hosted the 6th and last Awareness Raising Practical Session under Integrisport 3.0 frame. Co-organized by the Agenția Națională pentru Sport and CSCF Sport Integrity Group, the event focused on bolstering capabilities across law enforcement, judiciary, sports organizations, and ministries to protect sports integrity across Romania.

 

Among the 100 participants were representatives from various national and international organizations involved in sport, such as Prosecutor's Office of the High Court of Cassation and Justice, the Romanian Football Federation, the Romanian Basketball Federation, the Research and Crime Prevention Institute of the General Inspectorate of the Romanian Police, the Association of Amateur and Nonamateur Footballers (AFAN), National Anti-Doping Agency, Interpol, Europol, FIFPro, ULIS, PlayFairCode, Malta Police Force and more. The event opened by Elisabeta Lipă, president of the National Agency for Sport, Romania, Oana Țoiu, president of the Youth and Sports Committee in the Chamber of Deputies, Mihai Covaliu president of the Romanian Olympic and Sports Committee and Norbert Rubicsek, director CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, provided a unique opportunity for dialogue and collaboration among these diverse stakeholders, fostering a common understanding and vision for promoting integrity in sport.

"During our sessions in Romania and the successful conclusion of our awareness series, we've reached a significant milestone in our commitment to sports integrity," said Norbert Rubicsek, director at CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity in his conclusion. "The vivid discussion by Romanian authorities on issues and solutions gives the impression that significant steps are already underway in Romania's fight against sports manipulation”.

Key conclusions

 

1. Understanding the complexity of challenges: Participants gained insight into the diverse challenges associated with sports manipulation and crimes within the sports realm. Recognizing these complexities enables stakeholders to develop targeted strategies for effective solutions.

 

2. Importance of collaborative solutions: Collaboration with law enforcement and judiciary representatives in the sports industry fosters solidarity and amplifies the impact of initiatives. By sharing best practices, stakeholders identify innovative approaches to integrity issues for more robust solutions.

 

3. Empowerment for change: The vivid dialogues among the participants about possible procedures, necessary cooperation, and actions to be taken demonstrated dedication and engagement from all the different stakeholders in combating the phenomenon.

 

4. Commitment to sustained action: Stakeholders pledged to maintain ongoing dialogue and action in promoting sports integrity. In light of this commitment, they have prepared a joint statement, yet to be signed, that could serve as the foundation for these future initiatives aimed at enhancing integrity in sports.


About CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity:

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving force behind this unique initiative, is a leader in promoting fairness and ethics in the sporting world. Established to address integrity challenges such as manipulation, safeguarding issues, and whistleblowing, our mission is to cultivate a culture of transparency and honesty. We work closely with a diverse range of partners, including sports organizations, law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, and the betting sector, to deliver outstanding education, advice, and risk management strategies. Our partnerships extend across these critical sectors to provide comprehensive support and solutions.


Our global initiatives underscore the importance of collective efforts in maintaining sports integrity, ensuring a significant and positive impact on the sports community. Through advising, training, and policy-making, we tailor solutions to protect and support individuals across the spectrum, from those facing specific risks to the wider community, reinforcing sports as a force for good. CSCF is dedicated to a future where sports worldwide adhere to the highest ethical standards.

About Agenția Națională pentru Sport:

 

Agenția Națională pentru Sport is the leading governmental agency dedicated to promoting and regulating sport activities in Romania. With a mandate to enhance sport development, ensure fair play, and safeguard the integrity of sporting competitions, the agency plays a crucial role in advancing the sport industry's interests. As the country partner for the Integrisport 3.0 awareness raising practical session in Romania, Agenția Națională pentru Sport provided invaluable support and expertise, contributing to the event's success, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.


Project next steps

With the successful conclusion of the awareness raising practical session in Romania, Integrisport 3.0 is poised for its next exciting step: a peer-to-peer webinar for law enforcement and judiciaries that will further foster collaboration and continuous learning among project participants. This webinar will provide an additional opportunity to reflect on the topics discussed during the awareness raising practical session and further explore best practices to fight against sport manipulation.

 

Additionally, after the peer-to-peer webinar, the closing conference of the Integrisport 3.0 project will take place as the next significant event in the project's timeline. Scheduled for the 7th of November, this conference will reflect on the achievements and lessons learned during this journey and discuss future strategies for upholding integrity and fairness in sports. While the program may be concluding, we will continue our efforts to uphold integrity in sports and fight against sport manipulation.

 

For more information about Integrisport 3.0 and its future activities, please visit the project's official website at https://foundation.cscfsport.com/integrisport-3-0/ 

For media inquiries, please contact: Integrisport3.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Launching Integriball 2.0: Advancing Football education in integrity for Youth and Women


Brussels, March 13, 2024 - Building upon the success of the Integriball Erasmus+ project, the CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity proudly announces the rollout of Integriball 2.0. Today marks a significant milestone as partners of the project convene in Brussels to officially launch this highly anticipated initiative. This evolution reflects our ongoing dedication to delivering vital education and nurturing integrity among young and female football players.

The kickoff meeting of Integriball 2.0 marked a pivotal moment as key partners of the project came together to strategize and align their efforts. Discussions ranged from outlining the project's overarching goals to delineating specific action plans and timelines. Through open dialogue and shared vision, the partners reaffirmed their commitment to the project's mission, setting a solid foundation for future collaboration and impact.


About the project


This initiative aims to tackle crucial sports integrity issues, including the prevention of match-fixing, ensuring player safety through safeguarding measures, and promoting the significance of whistleblowing. Over the next two years, our objective is to enhance the educational resources available to federations and provide direct training to players in three countries: Estonia, Georgia, and Romania.


Partners of Integriball 2.0 include the coordinator and content expert CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the country partners, Eesti Jalgpalli LIIT (EJL), The Georgian Football Federation (GFF), and Federatia Romana De Fotbal (FRF), the partner organizations Berkeley Global Society (BGS), and United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS) and the supporting partner UEFA. This collaborative partnership fortifies the initiative, laying a strong foundation for its success.


Integriball 2.0 seeks to evaluate the level of knowledge on match-fixing, safeguarding, and whistleblowing protocols. Based on the assessment results, customized education programs will be developed and distributed in participating countries. The project's primary aim is to widely disseminate essential knowledge on countering sports manipulation, safeguarding practices, and whistleblowing mechanisms, ensuring accessibility for youth and female players alike. Through targeted education and empowerment initiatives, our goal is to foster a sporting environment that prioritizes integrity and inclusivity.


Since its inception, the program has made significant strides within football communities across eight countries: Belgium, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Greece, Malta and now Estonia, Georgia and Romania paving the way for a more secure, inclusive, and ethically-driven sports landscape.


“With Integriball 2.0, we continue our efforts to promote integrity within football, reaching out to young and female players with essential education on the matter," stated Norbert Rubicsek, Director at CSCF. "We are dedicated to making a difference and look forward to the advancements this initiative will bring.”


About CSCF


The CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity is an organization committed to enhancing integrity, transparency, and ethics in sports across the globe. We offer education, advice, and risk management support to sports organizations, law enforcement, governmental bodies, and the betting industry, addressing key ethical and integrity challenges.

As Integriball 2.0 coordinators and a premier content provider, we drive this unique initiative, committed to the cause of sports integrity.


About Integriball 2.0 partners


Eesti Jalgpalli LIIT (EJL): EJL, or the Estonian Football Association, is the governing body for football in Estonia. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, EJL represents the importance of integrity in sports governance at a national level. By ensuring fair play, transparency, and ethical conduct within Estonian football, EJL contributes to fostering integrity both on and off the field.


The Georgian Football Federation (GFF): GFF serves as the governing body for football in Georgia. Through its involvement in Integriball 2.0, GFF emphasizes the significance of integrity in sports development within the country. By promoting integrity in football administration, player conduct, and fan engagement, GFF plays a crucial role in upholding the values of fairness and honesty in Georgian football.


Federatia Romana De Fotbal (FRF): FRF, or the Romanian Football Federation, is responsible for overseeing football activities in Romania. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, FRF underscores the importance of integrity in football governance and competition. FRF's commitment to combating corruption, match-fixing, and other integrity-related issues within Romanian football highlights its dedication to preserving the sport's credibility and ethical standards.


Berkeley Global Society (BGS): BGS is an organization focused on global issues, including integrity in sports. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, BGS brings expertise in ethical leadership, anti-corruption measures, and transparency initiatives. By collaborating with football federations and other stakeholders, BGS contributes to advancing integrity principles and best practices in the sports industry worldwide.


United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS): ULIS is dedicated to promoting integrity and fair play in sports through collaboration with lottery organizations. As a partner in Integriball 2.0, ULIS emphasizes the role of sports betting integrity in maintaining the credibility of football competitions. By implementing measures to prevent match manipulation and illegal betting activities, ULIS helps safeguard the integrity of football and protects the interests of fans, athletes, and stakeholders.



For further information about Integriball 2.0 and opportunities for involvement, please contact: Integriball2.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity and Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria jointly hosted a landmark conference on combating sport and esport crimes in Sofia.


Sofia, Bulgaria – March 6th and 7th, 2024 – In a significant step towards combating manipulation and criminality in sports and esports, Bulgaria hosted the 5th Awareness Raising Practical Session under Integrisport 3.0 frame. Co-organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria and CSCF Sport Integrity Group, the event focused on bolstering capabilities across law enforcement, judiciary, sports organizations, and ministries to protect sports integrity across Bulgaria.

About the Integrisport Project

Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries to tackle sport manipulation and crimes in sports in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union.


About the event

The Awareness Raising Practical Sessions was inaugurated by Professor Daniela Dasheva, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, and Mr. Hristo Stefanov, Deputy Minister of Interior, highlighting the government's commitment to eradicating corruption in sports and providing a crucial support for propelling the project forward. They expressed the importance of educating law enforcement officials and warmly embraced Integrisport 3.0 project, which is dedicated to addressing this critical issue.

The event has witnessed an unprecedented level of participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, drawing 110 attendees that included over 70 individuals from different departments of the National Police and the Prosecution Office. Noteworthy among these were representatives from various sports federations—such as the National Football Federation, the National Basketball Federation, the National Tennis Federation, the Bulgarian Esport Federation, and the Bulgarian Olympic Committee —as well as members from relevant ministries and regulatory authorities. High-level representatives and operational staff from these entities have convened to deliberate on strategies for maintaining the integrity of sports and esports, addressing the multifaceted challenges these fields face.

The CSCF content experts, along with those from our project partners Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria, ULIS, Play Fair Code, and our supporting partner FIFPRO, have provided invaluable insights during the event sessions. Their expertise, combined with the contributions of the Maltese Police Force and international bodies such as Europol and Interpol, has enhanced the collaborative efforts to effectively address the complexities of combating crime in both sports and esports.


The event was attended by students from the Bulgarian Police Academy. These active students not only contributed to the discussions but, by learning about the topics the event offered, ensured the sustainability of the knowledge of the future Bulgarian Police gained in the topic.

After the conference, a side event took place within the framework of the Integrisport 3.0 project, where members of the Bulgarian National Platform and CSCF met to discuss the possible reactivation of the national platform and further building its foundations. The participating members, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the National Police, the National Revenue Office, and the Prosecution Service, reported positively on the next steps for activating the platform.

“To the young sports hopefuls and esteemed educators from the National Academy of Sciences, I emphasize a fundamental truth: while results undoubtedly hold significance in the realm of sports, let us not forget that true victory is forged through the crucible of relentless dedication and unwavering effort. Success is not merely an outcome but a journey, where hard work becomes the steadfast companion on the path to greatness." - Prof. Dasheva, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria.

Hristo Stefanov, Deputy Minister of Interior noted that "We accept sports as a challenge, spirit and strength, as an alternative for our children to have a cleaner and better environment in which to build themselves. But the coin has two sides, and sometimes sport, as a fair game, faces the temptation to manipulate the results. Then, in the style of sports terminology, the game is transferred to the field of law enforcement authorities, who are required to find the truth, so that the main idea of fair play can be fulfilled,"

Norbert Rubicsek, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity ‘s Director, shared his insights, stating, “Within the context of the Integrisport 3.0 project, our aim extends beyond mere acknowledgment of these issues; it is about fostering a comprehensive understanding and actionable strategies. By convening representatives from various sectors, including law enforcement agencies, judiciaries, ministries, sports federations, and other essential stakeholders, we create a forum for robust dialogue and knowledge exchange. Through these exchanges, we illuminate the multifaceted nature of sports manipulation and crime in sports and underscore the urgent need for coordinated action. The active involvement of ministers and stakeholders is pivotal in amplifying awareness on crime in sports, sports manipulation, and other integrity threats. Together, we are driving crucial conversations and collaborative actions to safeguard the purity of sports and esports."

This conference served as a crucial platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning in the battle against corruption and manipulation within the realm of sports and esports. By bringing together experts and stakeholders from various sectors, CSCF and Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria are setting a new standard for collaborative efforts in safeguarding the integrity of sports.

About CSCF

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving strength behind this unique initiative, has consistently championed the cause of sports integrity. CSCF boasts its strength in facilitating the creation of opportunities in sports, for effective and innovative programs and partnerships. CSCF partners with organizations around the world to provide complex and high-quality education and training to sport organizations, and law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, and other such transnational organizations on multiple integrity issues, as well as on effective investigations, whistle blowing systems etc. Our commitment to this noble effort acknowledges the importance of collective action to effectively combat manipulation within the world of sports around the world.

About Ministry of Youth and Sport of Bulgaria

The Ministry of Youth and Sports implements the unified state policy in the field of youth, sports and social tourism. Since its establishment, the ministry has played a fundamental role in the growth and promotion of sports in Bulgaria, as well as in creating opportunities for youth in various areas of society. The Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bulgaria has made numerous significant contributions to the development of the sports industry in the country. This includes implementing programs and policies aimed at improving sports infrastructure, supporting talented athletes, and promoting sports participation across all age groups and demographics.

For media inquiries, please contact: Integrisport3.admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

IntegriSport 3.0: Advancing Sports Integrity Across Europe – CSCF Foundation Highlights Progress and Strategy Following Interim Meeting


[Barcelona, Date] - The CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity is proud to announce significant progress and strategic plans following the project's recent interim meeting. All country partners, including Play Fair Code (Austria), the Greek Ministry of Culture and Sports, the National Police of Spain, the Estonian Center for Integrity in Sports (ESTCIS), National Agency for Sports of Romania, and the Bulgarian Ministry of Youth and Sports, gathered to evaluate the project and discuss its progress.


Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union.

Over the past year, IntegriSport 3.0, in coordination with CSCF, has successfully conducted four pivotal awareness-raising sessions in Greece, Spain, Austria, and Estonia. These sessions convened diverse stakeholders, including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and representatives from sports, esports, betting industries, ministries, and international authorities such as FIFPRO, Interpol, Europol, UEFA, and the International Olympic Committee.

During the recent interim meeting, the discussion delved into "good practices" and "lessons learned" from previous sessions and other activities undertaken by the project and also revolved around the upcoming awareness sessions scheduled in Bulgaria and Romania. The focus remains on engaging with key stakeholders to fortify integrity in sports and esports, targeting law enforcement, judiciaries, and prominent figures within the sports and esports community.

Looking ahead, IntegriSport 3.0 anticipates hosting a pivotal webinar in September, tailored for the law enforcement and judiciary community, culminating in a grand closing event slated for November.

Norbert Rubicsek, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity's representative, expressed optimism about the project's trajectory, stating, "As the coordinator of IntegriSport 3.0, CSCF is proud of the progress we have made in our first year. Our collaborative efforts have underscored the importance of addressing sports manipulation and crime from a multidisciplinary perspective. We are committed to driving impactful change and fostering trust in sports and esports."

After the interim meeting, representatives from CSCF and INEFC met with officers of MOSSOS, highlighting IntegriSport 3.0's scope and showcasing its objectives and potential in supporting MOSSOS's efforts in combating sports manipulation and crime in sports and esports.

As IntegriSport 3.0 continues its journey, stakeholders are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates and opportunities to contribute to the project's mission!

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity and ESTCIS Estonian Centre of Integrity in Sports Co-host Successful Awareness Session in Tallinn on Sport Integrity

The Integrisport 3.0 Project Continues to Make Strides in Educating Law Enforcement and Judiciary on Combating Sport Manipulation


Tallinn, Estonia, 8th of February – The latest awareness-raising session under the Integrisport 3.0 project was successfully held in Tallinn, Estonia, on the 7th and 8th of February. This significant event was co-hosted by CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the coordinator, and content expert of the Integrisport 3.0 project, and the ESTCIS Estonian Centre of Integrity in Sports, underscoring the project's ongoing commitment to combating sports manipulation and crime in sports and esports.

"Our aim with the awareness-raising session in Estonia was to convey a clear message to all stakeholders: the threat of manipulation in both traditional sports and esports is a pressing challenge that requires deeper understanding and collective action. Additionally, our efforts focused on bridging the gap between law enforcement and the esports sector, highlighting specific vulnerabilities, and emphasizing the critical support needed to uphold the integrity of sports,” said Norbert Rubicsek, director at CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity. "The active participation from various organizations on integrity issues was heartening. We are confident that this session has substantially strengthened the stakeholders' approach to combating sports crime, especially within the rapidly evolving esports landscape."


Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union. The inaugural awareness-raising practical session marked the commencement of this project and the 17th edition of the successful Integrisport program, reaching nearly two-thirds of EU countries' law enforcement and judiciaries in the last 4,5 years.

This time, over 45 participants from 25 organizations in Estonia participated in the conference and engaged in presentations, interventions, and panel discussions. The participants were introduced to different aspects of sport manipulation and crime in sports from various angles, ranging from policy-making to law enforcement issues. Discussions encompassed both traditional sports and esports, reflecting the evolving nature of integrity challenges in both domains. Representatives from national law enforcement, ministries, betting organizations, and sports organizations from football, handball, tennis, table tennis, wrestling, the National Olympic Committee attended. Partners of Integrisport 3.0, like the Spanish National Police, ULIS, the supporting partner FiFpro and the International Olympic Committee highlighted the session's diverse and inclusive approach.

"It is very important for ESTCIS, that the awareness-raising session gave us the chance to include esport community and its leaders in our discussions and in the future we can find the ways together as partners to make our youth understand better about the values of fair sport and keep them away from the evil side of sport," added Remo Perli, chief investigative officer from ESTCIS. "Also it is very important to move forward with the amendment of Estonian Penal code. It was pointed out by many experts in the session, that the special provision for sports manipulation is necessary."


CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving force behind this unique initiative, has consistently worked hard to protect the cause of sports integrity. Boasting strengths in creating opportunities in sports, CSCF excels in facilitating effective and innovative programs and partnerships. CSCF partners with organizations worldwide, providing complex and high-quality education and training to sports organizations, law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, and other transnational bodies. Our focus spans multiple integrity issues, notably sport manipulation and safeguarding, along with effective investigations, whistleblower systems, and risk management.Our commitment to this noble cause acknowledges the importance of collective action in effectively safeguarding sports integrity globally. We are dedicated to making a significant impact in the world of sports.

As the primary stakeholder for sports integrity in Estonia, the Estonian Centre of Integrity in Sports (ESTCIS) holds a crucial position in safeguarding the integrity of sports within the country. Serving as the country partner for IntegriSport 3.0 in Estonia, ESTCIS plays a central role in promoting ethical practices and combating sports-related corruption and manipulation. Leveraging its expertise and resources, ESTCIS works tirelessly to implement rigorous doping control measures, provide anti-doping education, and address various integrity issues such as match-fixing prevention, abuse prevention, and spectator safety. Through its proactive efforts, ESTCIS contributes significantly to maintaining the integrity and fairness of sports in Estonia and beyond.

The Integrisport 3.0 project continues to lead in raising awareness and fostering collaboration against sports manipulation and crime in sports and esports. Its comprehensive educational approach has received widespread acclaim.

The next awareness-raising session will be organized in Bulgaria on 6-7 March. For more information about the Integrisport 3.0 project and future sessions, please visit foundation.cscfsport.com/integrisport-3-0/

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

IACA and CSCF Sport Integrity Group Announce New Partnership on Promoting Integrity in Sport


On 2 Nov 2023, the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) and Counter Sport Corruption Foundation (CSCF) Sport Integrity Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing the framework for both institutions to cooperate promoting integrity and anti-corruption compliance in sport.

Speaking on the new partnership, Mr. Jaroslaw Pietrusiewicz, Officer-in-Charge of the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) stated:

“IACA is willing to join forces with the international sport community and share its knowledge and expertise in anti-corruption and compliance to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of integrity and compliance programmes in countries and sports organizations. We want to involve various stakeholders to deliver anti-corruption education and equip our partners with the needed tools to eliminate corruption in sport. We are looking forward to developing such activities with CSCF”.

 

Mr. Norbert Rubicsek, Director at CSCF – Sport Integrity Group gave remarks during the announcement of this new partnership and stated:

As the growing number of alarming cases reveals, the realm of sports is increasingly being compromised by wrongdoers. From the highest governing bodies to local clubs, there's an urgent need to fortify against such infiltration. We at CSCF Sport Integrity Group are dedicated to empowering these entities, not just in safeguarding themselves, but in actively standing up against these malicious actors.

Our partnership with IACA brings forth a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, offering a robust set of tools and educational resources designed to strengthen regulations and policies. This collaboration is a significant step towards eradicating bad practices and restoring integrity within the sports domain.”

The promotion of integrity, anti-corruption and compliance in sport has become one of the priorities in the international anti-corruption agenda. In the UNGASS Political Declaration “Our common commitment to effectively addressing challenges and implementing measures to prevent and combat corruption and strengthen international cooperation”, states declared safeguarding sport from corruption as one of their goals. Also, the G20 put this theme on its agenda.

In 2023, IACA started a new research project on integrity and anti-corruption compliance in sport. The aims of this research project are to identify main corruption risks and typologies of corrupt misconduct in various sports and develop an overview of best practices in promoting integrity, implementing anticorruption compliance management systems and whistleblower hotlines in international and national sports organizations, professional leagues, and clubs.

For the past seven years, CSCF has been at the forefront of protecting sports from potential infiltration. Through its extensive programmes, CSCF has provided comprehensive support in tackling sport manipulation, corruption in sports, safeguarding, doping, and whistleblowing not only to governmental organizations such as law enforcement agencies, judiciaries, and ministries but also to international and national sports organizations. Notably, CSCF 's programmes have been implemented and utilized in over 200 countries worldwide through transnational projects and activities, showcasing their global impact and effectiveness.

ABOUT IACA

The International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) is an international organization and post-secondary educational institution based in Laxenburg, Austria. It has been recognized by the United Nations General Assembly (resolutions A/RES/69/199 and A/RES/71/208, adopted on 18 December 2014 and 19 December 2016, respectively) as a center of excellence in anti-corruption education, training, and research. We advance the goals of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, promote the rule of law, and provide support and technical assistance for states, organizations, corporations, and other stakeholders. Corruption knows no borders, affects all countries and sectors of society, and cannot be remedied with traditional educational methods alone.

This is why our vision is to tackle the scourge of corruption with a new and holistic approach, including academic programmes, capacity building initiatives, technical assistance, research, and international cooperation and networking.

To contact IACA, please email: james.bigila@iaca.int

For more information about IACA, visit – www.iaca.int

 

ABOUT CSCF Sport Integrity Group

The CSCF Sport Integrity Group is an organization that, with a global operational footprint, serves as a dedicated guardian of integrity in sports. CSCF's expertise in sport manipulation, safeguarding, and whistleblowing position the organization at the forefront of preserving sports integrity. Committed to the profound economic, moral, and social dimensions unique to sports, CSCF actively engage with diverse organizations, fostering a world where sports thrive with integrity through fresh initiatives, capacity-building, prevention, reactive measures, and international cooperation.

CSCF's comprehensive services encompass advice, policy development, education, whistleblowing support, risk management, and investigation. Addressing issues proactively, strive to shape the landscape of sports integrity, fortifying the foundation of integrity, fairness, and enduring values upon which the world of sports stands.

To contact CSCF, please email: admin@cscfsport.com

For more information about CSCF, visit – cscfsport.com

 

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com

Integrisport 3.0 – Awareness raising practical session (ARPS) conducted in Vienna, Austria for law enforcement and judiciary on tackling sport manipulation


Vienna, Austria – The 3rd ARPS under the IntegriSport 3.0 umbrella was co-organized by CSCF in collaboration with our Austrian partner Play Fair Code, Austria – the National Association for ‘Integrity in Sport’. The event was held in close cooperation with the Austria Ministry of the Interior and the Criminal Intelligence Service Austria at the beautiful venue House of Sports (Haus des Sports) in Vienna, on 4th and 5th December, 2023.

Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union. The ARPS in Vienna was the third event under the present project and the 16th edition under the successful Integrisport program, which has reached nearly two-thirds of EU countries' law enforcement and judiciaries in the last 4.5 years. CSCF is dedicated to fortifying the integrity of sports and as coordinator and content provider for this ARPS, our commitment was further strengthened to develop the capacities of the stakeholders across Europe.


The training event was first of its kind in case of Austria where such a multi-stakeholder cooperation was created and a training event on topics related to sports manipulation and related crimes in sports was imparted to more than 45 investigators from across Austria, from multiple departments of the Criminal Intelligence Service Austria, prosecutors, and judicial officers.

The main goal of the event was to introduce the participants to the key topics related to possible crime in sports, for helping them get aware of the issues, to broaden their knowledge and allow them make connections to their own work with the possible sports manipulation issues, thereby positively contributing towards the preservation of sports integrity and to strengthen their fight against manipulation in sport.

The symposium, i.e., the Awareness Raising Practical Session (ARPS) was part of the IntegriSport 3.0 project and organized by CSCF Foundation for Sports Integrity, the coordinator and content experts of the project, along with Play Fair Code, Austria, the country partners of the project. The event saw more than 30 speakers, presenters and panelists, from Austria and also international experts, from diverse sectors to provide the best possible and most updated knowledge, which would help these police officers and investigators to understand better the multifaceted challenge of sport manipulation.

Among the notable keynote speakers of the event were Friedrich Stickler, President of Play Fair Code and Severin Moritzer, CEO of Play Fair Code, Norbert Rubicsek, Director CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, Ms. Martina Spreitzer-Kropiunik, Vice President Criminal Court Vienna, Johann Fuchs, Chief Public Prosecutor, Vienna, Franz Schwarzenbacher, Head of Unit Betting Fraud, Doping and Pharmaceutical Crime, Federal Criminal Police, Austria, Andreas Baumgartner, Integrity Officer, Austrian Football Federation (ÖFB), Austrian ambassador for IntegriSport 3.0 – Manuel Ortlechner, former player of the Austrian National football team and currently Sporting Director FK Austria Wien and several prominent other speakers from Austrian and international organizations like FIFPRO, ULIS, Malta Police Force, National Police of Spain, Basketball Austria, the European Handball Federation, the Austrian eSport Federation, NADA Austria, Austrian betting operators and several others.


It was interesting to hear Mr. Franz Schwarzenbacher, who emphasized the event's significance, stating, "It was a perfect opportunity for us to spread knowledge, expertise and know-how with our colleagues from all around Austria. Sharing the various investigation approaches is key for both, raising awareness and a robust understanding of the issue.”

Adding to the above, Ms. Barbara Pusca, Head of Sub-Department Training, Knowledge and Information Management, Criminal Intelligence Service Austria said, Our cooperation with the Play Fair Code is a new approach for us and clearly adds value to our training and education efforts for our colleagues. We saw a series of very interesting presentations and panels with a national and international perspective towards the huge problem of match fixing in the world of sport.”

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving strength behind this unique initiative, has consistently championed the cause of sports integrity. CSCF boasts its strength in facilitating the creation of opportunities in sports, for effective and innovative programs and partnerships. CSCF partners with organizations around the world to provide complex and high quality education and training to sport organizations, and law enforcement, judiciaries, ministries, and other such transnational organizations on multiple integrity issues, as well as on effective investigations, whistle blowing systems etc. Our commitment to this noble effort acknowledges the importance of collective action to effectively combat manipulation within the world of sports around the world.


Reinforcing CSCF’s principals, Norbert Rubicsek, CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity ‘s Director, shared his insights, stating, “To combat sports manipulation and crime in sports, it requires complex actions and cooperation from all the involved stakeholders. Sports need support to counteract fixers infiltrating it, and this support should come from law enforcement, judiciaries, as well as other stakeholders in the domain. This is one of the main objectives of the IntegriSport 3.0. project: understanding and supporting each other.”

Play Fair Code CEO, Severin Moritzer noted that: “With a twelve years national and international track record and expertise in the fight against match fixing and for integrity in sport, IntegriSport 3.0 and the training for and with a core group of Police investigators simply is a perfect fit.”

The two-day symposium explored the diverse challenges associated with sports manipulation and crimes within the sports realm, not just of Austria but across Europe and beyond. Additionally, a key aim was to promote collaboration at both national and international levels, acknowledging the necessity for a unified approach to address this global issue. The ARPS marks a significant step forward in the continuous effort to protect the integrity of sports in Austria. As experts and influencers come together, there is a renewed optimism for a future where sports continue to embody fair play and honest competition, inspiring generations to come.

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com

Disclaimer: The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Integrisport 3.0 – Sesión práctica de sensibilización para autoridades policiales y judiciales sobre la lucha contra la manipulación deportiva en España

Madrid, España – Más de 100 funcionarios de varios departamentos de la Policía Nacional se reunieron en Madrid para asistir a un simposio de formación los días 24 y 25 de octubre de 2023 en el Complejo de la Policía Nacional de Madrid, en el que aprendieron temas clave que les ayudarán a contribuir a la preservación del deporte, integridad y fortalecer su lucha contra la manipulación en el deporte. El simposio, es decir, la Sesión Práctica de Sensibilización (ARPS), fue parte del proyecto IntegriSport 3.0 y fue organizado por la Fundación CSCF para la Integridad Deportiva, coordinadora y experta en contenidos del proyecto, junto con la Policía de España, los países socios del proyecto, en estrecha cooperación con el Ministerio del Interior de España. Esta reunión excepcional reunió a un impresionante elenco de más de 32 oradores, uniendo a expertos, visionarios y partes interesadas clave de diversos sectores para abordar el desafío multifacético de la manipulación deportiva.

Integrisport 3.0 es un proyecto creado para brindar apoyo teórico y práctico a las autoridades policiales y judiciales en los seis países del programa: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Grecia, Rumania y España, cofinanciado por la Unión Europea. La sesión práctica inaugural de sensibilización marcó el inicio de este proyecto y de la 15ª edición del exitoso programa Integrisport , que ha llegado a casi dos tercios de los órganos policiales y judiciales de los países de la UE en los últimos 4,5 años.

Además de los ponentes expertos del CSCF, destacaron el comisario jefe José Ángel González Morán, Jefe de la Unidad Central de delincuencia especializada y violenta, el comisario Félix López Rivera, jefe de la Brigada Central de Delitos contra las Personas y el inspector jefe David Calvete Sarasa, jefe del Servicio Central de Control de Juegos y Apuestas de la Policía Nacional y otros funcionarios de diversas organizaciones de alto nivel, entre ellas la Policía Nacional, LALIGA, UEFA, Asociación de Futbolistas Españoles (AFE), Real Federación Española de Fútbol, Federación Española de Rugby, Federación española de Tenis, miembros de la Fiscalía General del Estado, de la Fiscalía Anticorrupción, Centro Finlandés para la Integridad en el Deporte (FINCIS), Asociación Eslovaca de Fútbol, Policía de Malta y muchos más. El evento contó con la participación de una serie de distinguidos representantes de organismos encargados de hacer cumplir la ley, eminentes funcionarios judiciales, figuras reconocidas del mundo del deporte, voces influyentes de los sindicatos de jugadores, líderes del sector de las apuestas y pioneros de los deportes electrónicos.

El evento fue un esfuerzo de colaboración, organizado conjuntamente por el Servicio de Control del juego de la Policía nacional, del que se encuentra adscrito el Centro Nacional de Policía para la Integridad en los Deportes y las Apuestas (CENPIDA) y coorganizado por la Fundación CSCF para la Integridad Deportiva, una organización dedicada a fortalecer la integridad de los deportes como coordinador y proveedor de contenido del evento. Este espíritu de colaboración se extendió aún más con el apoyo sustancial y la presencia activa de organizaciones estimadas como nuestros socios de IntegriSport 3.0 Play Fair Code, Austria (PFC), United Lotteries for Integrity in Sport (ULIS), también nuestro socio de apoyo FIFPRO, junto con Interpol y Europol, que participaron activamente en el evento.

En esencia, este simposio tenía como objetivo proporcionar una combinación de conocimientos teóricos y orientación práctica a los organismos encargados de hacer cumplir la ley, los órganos judiciales y las partes interesadas de la industria. Juntos, profundizaron en los innumerables desafíos que rodean la manipulación deportiva y los crímenes dentro del mundo del deporte. Otro objetivo primordial fue fomentar la cooperación nacional e internacional, reconociendo que este problema global exige un frente unido. Los participantes, la mayoría de los cuales conocieron estos temas clave por primera vez, brindaron comentarios muy positivos y apreciaron mucho el nivel de contenido, diseño y formato del evento.


La Fundación CSCF para la Integridad Deportiva, la fuerza impulsora detrás de esta iniciativa, ha defendido durante mucho tiempo la causa de la integridad deportiva. Su compromiso con este noble esfuerzo reconoce la necesidad de una acción colectiva para combatir eficazmente la manipulación dentro de la industria del deporte.

El director de la Fundación CSCF para la Integridad Deportiva, Norbert Rubicsek, compartió sus ideas y afirmó: " Nuestra dedicación por defender la pureza de los deportes nos ha impulsado a organizar este evento innovador. Creemos firmemente que fomentando la cooperación entre todas las partes interesadas, podemos forjar un marco resiliente para combatir la manipulación deportiva y salvaguardar los valores que hacen que el deporte sea tan especial. "

Durante la clausura del evento de dos días, el inspector jefe David Calvete señaló: Quiero expresar mi más sincero agradecimiento por la oportunidad que se ha brindado a la Policía Nacional de colaborar en el proyecto IntegriSport 3.0, comprometido con la lucha contra el amaño de partidos en todo el mundo. Es un privilegio ser parte de él y contribuir a su éxito. Las claves del éxito son la proactividad, la búsqueda de soluciones creativas a los retos que se presentan y la colaboración efectiva entre todos los participantes. Estoy seguro que este proyecto seguirá creciendo y logrando grandes cosas y nosotros, en la Policía Nacional, queremos ser parte de ese progreso”. Añadió además diciendo: "También me gustaría destacar la dedicación y profesionalismo de todos los miembros del equipo de CSCF. Su compromiso y arduo trabajo han sido inspiradores y han asegurado que los días se hayan celebrado con excelencia".

El simposio de dos días en Madrid marca un paso transformador en la búsqueda continua para salvaguardar la integridad del deporte en España. Con la unión de expertos y partes interesadas para fortalecer la lucha contra la manipulación deportiva, existe una esperanza renovada de un futuro en el que los deportes sigan siendo un modelo de juego limpio y competencia honesta, que inspire a las generaciones venideras.

Para consultas de los medios, comuníquese con: admin@cscfsport.com

Integrisport 3.0 – Awareness raising practical session for law enforcement and judiciary on tackling sport manipulation in Spain

Madrid, Spain – More than 100 officials from various departments of Policia Nacional came together in Madrid to attend a training symposium on 24th and 25th October, 2023, at the National Police Complex Madrid, learning key topics for helping them contribute towards the preservation of sports integrity and to strengthen their fight against manipulation in sport. The symposium, i.e., the Awareness Raising Practical Session (ARPS) was part of the IntegriSport 3.0 project and organized by CSCF Foundation for Sports Integrity, the coordinator and content experts of the project, along with Policia España, the country partners of the project, in close cooperation with Ministry of Interior, Spain. This exceptional gathering brought together an impressive lineup of more than 32 speakers, uniting experts, visionaries, and key stakeholders from diverse sectors to tackle the multifaceted challenge of sport manipulation.

Integrisport 3.0 is a project established to provide theoretical and practical support for law enforcement and judiciaries in the six program countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Romania, and Spain, co-financed by the European Union. The inaugural awareness-raising practical session marked the commencement of this project and the 15th edition of the successful Integrisport program, reaching nearly two-thirds of EU countries' law enforcement and judiciaries in the last 4.5 years.

In addition to the expert speakers from CSCF, the notable speakers were Chief Commissioner José Ángel González Morán, Head of the Specialized and Violent Crime Unit, Commissioner Félix López River, Head of the Central Crimes against Persons Brigade and Chief Inspector David Calvete Sarasa, Head of the Central Gaming and Betting Control Service of the National Police and various other officials from a number of high level organizations including the National Police, LALIGA, UEFA, Association of Spanish Soccer Players (AFE), Royal Spanish Football Federation, Spanish Rugby Federation, Spanish Tennis Federation, members of the State Attorney General's Office and of the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, Finnish Center for Integrity in Sport (FINCIS), Slovak Football Association, Malta Police Force and many more. The event saw participation from a number of distinguished representatives from law enforcement agencies, eminent judiciary officials, renowned figures from the world of sports, influential voices from players' unions, leaders from the betting sector, and pioneers in esports.

The event was a collaborative effort, jointly hosted by the Gambling Control Service of the National Police, which is part of the National Center of Police for Integrity in Sports and Betting (CENPIDA) and co-hosted by CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, an organization dedicated to fortifying the integrity of sports as the event's coordinator and content provider. This collaborative spirit extended further with substantial support and active presence from esteemed organizations like our IntegriSport 3.0 partners Play Fair Code, Austria (PFC), United Lotteries for Integrity in Sport (ULIS), also our supporting partner FIFPRO, along with Interpol and Europol, actively participating in the proceedings.

At its core, this symposium aimed to provide a blend of theoretical insights and practical guidance to law enforcement agencies, judiciary bodies, and industry stakeholders. Together, they delved into the myriad challenges surrounding sport manipulation and crimes within the world of sports. Another primary objective was to foster national and international cooperation, recognizing that this global issue demands a united front. The participants, most of whom were introduced to these key topics for the first time, provided a very positive feedback, appreciating highly for the level of content, design and format of the event.


CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity, the driving force behind this initiative, has long championed the cause of sports integrity. Their commitment to this noble endeavor recognizes the need for collective action to effectively combat manipulation within the sports industry.

CSCF Foundation for Sport Integrity 's Director, Norbert Rubicsek, shared his insights, stating, "Our dedication to upholding the purity of sports has propelled us to organize this groundbreaking event. We firmly believe that by fostering cooperation among all stakeholders, we can forge a resilient framework to combat sport manipulation and safeguard the values that make sports so special."

During the closing of the 2 day event, Chief Inspector David Calvete noted: I want to express my most sincere gratitude for the opportunity that has been given to the National Police to collaborate in IntegriSport 3.0 project, committed to fight match fixing across the world. It is a privilege to be part of it and contribute to its success. The keys to success are proactivity, the search for creative solutions to the challenges that arise, and effective collaboration between all participants. I am sure that this project will continue to grow and achieve great things, and we, at National Police, want to be part of that progress.” He further added by saying "I would also like to highlight the dedication and professionalism of all team members of CSCF. Their commitment and hard work have been inspiring and have ensured that the days have been celebrated with excellence."

The 2 day symposium in Madrid marks a transformative stride in the ongoing quest to safeguard the integrity of sports in Spain. With experts and stakeholder uniting together to strengthen the fight against sports manipulation, there is renewed hope for a future where sports remain a beacon of fair play and honest competition, inspiring generations to come.

For media inquiries, please contact: admin@cscfsport.com