The Chinese Football Association Super League, largely backed by real estate firms, has faced financial instability as these companies struggle to deliver finished apartments or pay back debts. As a result, payments to players aiming to enhance the league’s brand and potential in China and internationally have faced challenges due to concerns about the financial health of real estate firms.
The Communist Party has recently issued sentences ranging from eight years to life in prison to officials in sports programs controlled by the party. These officials were accused of accepting bribes and committing financial crimes. Among those who received a life sentence was Chen Xuyuan, the former president of the Chinese Football Association, for his involvement in match-fixing and financial crimes. Other high-ranking officials who were sentenced to prison for accepting bribes include the former head of the National Athletics Association, Hong Chen, and former high-ranking soccer official Chen Yongliang.
Corruption in Chinese soccer has long been an issue, with reports of payoffs to players and referees to influence match outcomes. There are also allegations of payments made to secure spots for players in training camps, including the national men’s squad, which is currently ranked 88th by FIFA. The women’s national team holds the 19th spot.
The sport’s struggles in China are further compounded by economic slowdowns and government intervention in sports, culture, and private enterprises. These factors have hindered the country’s efforts to improve the competitiveness and success of its soccer programs.
