Kamran Jabrayilov: Participants of fixed matches can be jailed for 6-8 years - INTERVIEW

Baku. 15 November. REPORT.AZ/ Report News Agency presents an interview with the UEFA representative in AFFA, Kamran Jabrayilov regarding to fixed matches.

- The main subject of November 13 discussions at a meeting with representatives of the clubs performing at I Divison was the fixed matches. What was the reason for this meeting?

- UEFA programs include instructions to make educational presentations for players, football community. This meeting was organized according to that plan and will continue throughout the season.

- What issues did presentation cover?

- The participants were informed about legal basis of the games. There is also the Council of Europe Convention, member of which is Azerbaijan. We told about amendments to the Criminal Code. Notably, participation in fixed matches will cause criminal liability. We have touched on amendments to the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Physical Education and Sports. We stated that the fight against manipulation of sports competitions is a state policy.

- What are the main methods of fighting against fixed matches?

- UEFA has very broad experience in this regard. They do this in the form of a concrete system.They cooperate with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors on the ground. Also, there are contracts with betting companies of UEFA and they work in this field. When there are suspicious cases, it is being reported to UEFA. They also analyze and prepare reports in a very detailed form and direct organization to the game.

- Local media has repeatedly heard about the games spoken in previous years. Will you consider such information?

- Of course, we want to work comprehensively. The news included in the press will also be taken into account. However, reports from the UEFA are of great importance in this process and they are taken as the basis.Because the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) also ruled that reports derived from UEFA are reasonable and sufficiently detailed. That's why we are serious about it. Of course, if there is substantiated information in the press, we would appreciate it and thank you for your cooperation.

- What are the provisions reflected in FIFA and UEFA, as well as AFFA Disciplinary Rules about fixed matches?

- Although UEFA Disciplinary Rules set limits for penalties, but fixed matches are exception. That is, a life sentence may also apply.

- What are the changes to the Criminal Code regarding fixed matches?

- Changes were made in November 2016. In parallel, the Law on "The Physical Education and Sports" of the Azerbaijan Republic has been amended. The Criminal Code envisages two forms of penalties. The first category includes athletes, coaches, or referees who are involved in this work. The second is the sports community. Criminal liability is imposed on all of them. Make long story short participants of fixed matches can be sentenced to 3-6 years in prison. When committed repeatedly or by a criminal group, the sentence of 6-8 years can be imposed.