Times of Malta has reported that 11 Malta national water polo players and one official have been formally charged with illegal betting violations following an international investigation by the Aquatics Integrity Unit within World Aquatics.
In Mark Laurence Zammit’s article, Times of Malta reported that the investigation found “no evidence of match-fixing, match manipulation, or any attempt to improperly influence the outcome of any match.”
However, the probe concluded that the individuals breached World Aquatics integrity rules by placing online bets on water polo events while being active athletes or personnel.
According to the report, the accused face proposed suspensions, fines, mandatory cooperation with integrity education, and, in some cases, proof of professional treatment for gambling addiction.
The Aquatic Sports Association of Malta said it welcomed the finding that there was no manipulation of match results, but stressed that the betting-related breaches must be taken seriously.
ASA president Karl Izzo said this should be a moment of “measured reflection, rather than celebration,” adding that the association will now focus on prevention, education, and long-term integrity safeguards within Maltese water polo.
