This article will tell you about the biggest football controversies that happened in 2023.
Football is recognized not only for its exciting matches and devoted fans, but it also has its fair share of problems and scandals. Several occurrences occurred in 2023 that shocked the football community and made international headlines.
When it comes to making headlines, the great world of football produces a never-ending stream of huge stories, scandals, and other events.
Here are some of the 2023 football controversies that have captivated fans and the media.
#5 Brazilian National Team Fixing Scandal
In February 2023, Brazilian football was ensnared in a web of corruption. Authorities apprehended 18 persons, including players, referees, and club officials, who were involved in a large-scale match-fixing scheme in the Série B, the second level.
Not only did the incident endanger the competition’s integrity, but it also raised concerns about football’s vulnerability to organized crime.
#4 Serie A Betting Controversy
Off-field scandals have always plagued Italian football, and this time the country has been rocked by an illicit betting scandal. The most current controversy involves roughly 40 Italian players, including some Serie A stars.
Nicolo Fagioli, a Juventus midfielder, was the first to be found guilty of the offense and has been banned from sport for seven months.
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali was also found guilty and sentenced to ten months in prison. Several athletes and their agents have now agreed to help fully with the probe.
#3 Dani Alves Rape Case
Dani Alves, a former Brazil and Barcelona legend, was arrested in January on suspicion of sexually abusing a lady in a Barcelona nightclub. He has denied any misconduct and stated that his intercourse with the complainant was mutual.
However, he has yet to make a compelling case for himself. He’s been in jail for about eight months. If proven guilty, Alves may face years in prison.
#2 Hermoso – Rubiales Kissing Controversy
The historic victory of Spain against England in the Women’s World Cup final should have been cause for joy. During the trophy ceremony, however, then-RFEF President Luis Rubiales violently kissed star player Jenni Hermoso on the lips while seizing her head with both hands.
Hermoso’s obvious distress, as well as the viral video footage, sparked immediate criticism. The President of the Spanish Federation originally rejected the criticism and refused to resign.
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He did, however, face a barrage of criticism, ranging from legal consultants to ordinary citizens clamouring for his resignation. FIFA eventually banned him from football-related activities for three years.
#1 Everton’s Points Deduction Punishment
The society operates on the premise that any punishment imposed for instances of law-breaking should be proportionate to the crime. The Premier League appears to be unfamiliar with this concept.
Deducting 10 points from their tally for financial rule violations was unusually punitive, even though the investigation noted Everton’s rule-breaking was not intentional.
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The team has recovered from the punishment to move out of the relegation zone. If history is any guide, they will finish the season in the middle of the standings.
