According to Article 20.5 of the World Anti-Doping Code (hereinafter Code), it is not within the authority of a national anti-doping organization, such as RUSADA, to amend national legislation (in this case, the laws of the Russian Federation). RUSADA is not a governmental body, does not have the right to issue any legislation and has no right of legislative initiative.
Article 23.2 of the Code states that "The Signatories shall implement applicable Code provisions through policies, statutes, rules or regulations according to their authority and within their relevant spheres of responsibility."
The Code is implemented in Russia through the All-Russian Anti-Doping Rules, which are enacted in accordance with the Federal Law "On Physical Culture and Sport in the Russian Federation" of December 4, 2007, No. 329-FZ.
RUSADA has taken extensive measures to reinstate the agency's compliance status within the framework of its functions and powers. To date, WADA has not received any complaints about RUSADA's work regarding the application of the CAS Award.
RUSADA is currently evaluating the documents received to determine whether a notice of disagreement with WADA's decision is required. The subject of compliance evaluation may be brought to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne in the event of notice.
RUSADA continues to carry out its functions without limitations and in strict accordance with international standards and regulations.
Introduction
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) remains resolute in its mission to maintain fairness, integrity, and transparency within the esports industry. In alignment with our commitment, we have meticulously reviewed an out-of-time appeal submitted by Allan “Rejin” Petersen in May 2023, concerning a sanction originally imposed in 2020. The substance of the appeal was related to the post-facto Valve RMR sanction imposed by Valve independently and in response to ESIC’s original sanction. Importantly, the result of ESIC’s review does not modify the ESIC-imposed sanction but significantly affects the post-facto Valve RMR sanction.
Overview of the Appeal
Mr. Petersen was initially assigned 8 demerit points as a result of ESIC’s investigation into his involvement and incorrect response to the CSGO coach bug. This decision was reached after a comprehensive investigation, and the demerit points assigned to Mr. Petersen were subsequently and independently recognized by Valve and translated into a secondary Valve RMR sanction banning Mr. Petersen from Valve Majors for life.
While the original sanction by ESIC remains unaltered our adherence to the principles of natural justice and equitable treatment prompted the acceptance of the appeal, even though it was submitted almost three years after the initial sanction was imposed. The ESIC Independent Appeal Panel and the ESIC Commissioner have conducted an exhaustive review of the case, considering new evidence presented by Mr. Petersen.
Mr. Petersen has successfully substantiated that the extent of the bug exploitation was not as initially calculated. Acknowledging this new evidence and in pursuit of equity and fairness, the demerit points assigned to Mr. Petersen have been recalculated and reduced from 8 to 5.
Implications of Appeal Result
It is important to note that this recalibration does not modify the ESIC-imposed sanction (meaning ESIC in this statement is not modifying its initial sanction) but significantly affects the post-facto Valve RMR sanction. The revised demerit points alleviate the lifetime ban from Valve Majors, imposing a restriction from 5 Majors instead. Following this period, Mr. Petersen will regain eligibility to coach in subsequent Majors.
Importantly, ESIC has communicated the result of the appeal to Valve and has received notice that the result of the appeal has been accepted by Valve.
Acknowledgements
ESIC extends its appreciation to Valve for facilitating open and collaborative communications on this matter and for reviewing and accepting the appeal.
ESIC also acknowledges Mr. Petersen for his cooperation and transparency throughout the investigation process. His prompt admission and invaluable contribution, notably being one of the first coaches to disclose the existence of the bug, were instrumental in facilitating our inquiry.
ESIC is unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding the core values of the esports industry and will continue to implement rigorous measures to ensure fairness and integrity. Our resolve to uphold the highest standards of integrity within the esports industry remains steadfast.
Gillingham have been fined £12,500 and ordered to implement an action plan after admitting misconduct in relation to crowd control for incidents at three separate EFL League Two games during the 2022/23 season.
The club failed to ensure that its spectators and/or supporters – and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers – conduct themselves in an orderly fashion at its game against Colchester United on 26 December 2022, and don’t use words or behaviour that are improper, offensive, abusive, indecent, or insulting with either express or implied reference to race, colour or ethnic origin.
The club also failed to ensure that its spectators and/or supporters – and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers – conduct themselves in an orderly fashion during its match against Sutton United on 29 December 2022, and don’t use words or behaviour that are improper, offensive, abusive, indecent, or insulting with either express or implied reference to gender.
Finally, the club failed to ensure that its spectators and/or supporters – and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers – conduct themselves in an orderly fashion at its game against AFC Wimbledon on 25 February 2023, and don’t use words or behaviour that are improper, offensive, abusive, indecent, or insulting with either express or implied reference to gender.
An independent Regulatory Commission imposed the club’s sanctions following a hearing, and its written reasons for them can be seen below.
We welcome the passing of the Online Safety Bill and are pleased that English football has played a prominent role in the development of this legislation.
It is a significant moment for those who participate in the game as the Bill will hold social media companies to account and we look forward to working closely with Ofcom on its implementation.
We encourage the government to ensure that Ofcom and law enforcement are fully equipped to challenge social media companies if they fail to protect their users.
But social media companies don’t need to wait. They can introduce better tools right now so that users have a better experience, free from unwanted and damaging discrimination.
The RFEF wishes to convey to the members of the National Team the public commitment made by the new leadership of the institution that governs football in Spain.
The objective is to clearly articulate, without internal or external interpretations, the strategic pillars in this new stage of the Federation that both football and society demand.
The Federation itself is aware of the need for structural changes, as already announced by the President of the Interim Commission, Pedro Rocha, and has begun to materialize them in recent times.
This conviction has led to difficult decisions in recent days that will continue to be made, as there is a firm belief that renewal is necessary.
In this regard, it is absolutely essential, to carry out these changes, to clarify each of the behaviors and actions that may have occurred and, therefore, act with professionalism and justice, determining the relevant responsibilities in each case.
It is evident that the Federation, society, and the players themselves are aligned with the same objective: the renewal and the beginning of a new phase where football is the main beneficiary of this entire process.
Hence, players are urged to join this change led by the Federation, understanding that the ongoing transformations must be robust and fair.
We guarantee a safe environment for the players and advocate for a climate of mutual trust so that we can work together and ensure that women's football continues to progress much stronger.
We must begin to proudly display the star that the players have achieved with so much effort.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is pleased to announce the Asia Football Group (AFG) as its new exclusive commercial partner for the 2023-2028 term with immediate effect in a strategic decision to further solidify and enhance the Confederation’s financial sustainability.
The Dubai-registered AFG have been selected as the dedicated partner for the AFC to achieve its ambitions and drive the sport's growing commercial success across the world, with the partnership enabling the Confederation to secure its financial future and set the stage for the continued growth and development of football in Asia.
The new commercial arrangement with AFG has been put in place after the evaluation and consideration of proposals from potential partners, with the AFC Executive Committee concluding that AFG’s expertise and vision not only align with the AFC’s wider objectives, but also ensure the continuity of service during this period to the AFC, its commercial partners and football stakeholders.
AFG are an integrated sports marketing agency highly experienced in delivering the full spectrum of services and achieving various business outputs, reinforcing the assurance of a smooth transition from the AFC’s previous commercial partners.
The new commercial deal enables the AFC to continue its investment into its Member Associations and Regional Associations, deliver all its popular competitions, grow its fanbase, and cultivate a flourishing football community across the Continent.
The AFC looks forward to a fruitful collaboration with AFG in the confidence that the partnership will take the game to new heights, continuing the Asian football success story.
The UEFA Football Board met at the House of European Football in Nyon on Monday to engage in constructive discussions on a variety of topics related to women’s football, ranging from strategy and refereeing to the match calendar, competitions and player welfare.
The meeting kicked off with a presentation about UEFA’s women’s football activities and initiatives highlighted by attendance records broken across the continent by clubs and national teams as well as the increased investments made in Europe over the past seasons.
The Board then discussed the post-24 UEFA Women’s Football Strategy where it was recommended to increase initiatives encouraging greater representation in leadership positions within football, new competition opportunities, player protection, improved academy structures as well as increased support for small and medium-sized national associations.
The Board also discussed refereeing matters such as VAR, handball offences, player and coach behaviour and the new UEFA “Be a Referee!” campaign followed by competitions and match calendar matters. The Board conveyed the need for greater consideration of players needs and open dialogue on the match calendar, competition scheduling and calculation of stoppage time, which adds additional burden to an already heavy workload on the players. The Board also expressed their appreciation and satisfaction with the new UEFA women’s national team competition system and provided feedback on the current state and the evolution of the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
The meeting concluded with medical discussions focused on the effects of the menstrual cycle on player performance and recovery, head injury prevention and education as well as on anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention and treatment.
The meeting was attended by Verónica Boquete, Marissa Callaghan, Karen Carney, Jovana Damnjanović, Jonas Eidevall, Magdalena Eriksson, Laura Georges, Gemma Grainger, Ada Hegerberg, Pernille Harder, Josephine Henning, Eugénie Le Sommer, Carolina Morace, Francisco Neto, Alexia Putellas, Lotta Schelin, Viktoria Schnaderbeck, Tessa Wullaert and Leah Williamson.
Nadine Kessler, UEFA Managing Director of Women’s Football, said: “Bringing together some of the greats of our game to discuss the successes, challenges and opportunities facing our sport was a necessary step. We listened to them carefully. And I truly loved the open spirit and constructive debate. Their ideas, without any doubt, will lead to an even better European football landscape. I want to thank them all for their time."
Verónica Boquete said: “This is a group with expertise, they really know our competitions, our problems, our weaknesses and our strengths so it’s great to be able to share in that. We want to help be part of the improvement of the system and the organisation and bring new ideas. I already think UEFA is doing a great job but if I can do something to help that is great.”
Karen Carney said: “Everything is moving really fast but we have to build the sport on a solid foundation. Today has been getting people together to understand that there are so many countries and everyone is at different parts in their evolution of women’s football, so to understand and hear everyone’s side is really important because we all want the same thing.”
UEFA and the European Club Association (ECA) have today signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that extends their cooperation until 2030. Building on a relationship which now spans over fifteen years, the new MoU will elevate their partnership to bolster long-term stability and sustainable growth in European club football.
At the heart of this agreement lies a full commitment to strengthen the core principles of the European football pyramid championed by fans across Europe. This includes the central role of UEFA as the European governing body and the open system of promotion and relegation that ultimately culminates in qualification for an open model of European competitions.
The revamped agreement aligns the cooperative efforts of both organisations with the evolving landscape of the men's and women’s international match calendar and the forthcoming structural changes to men's UEFA club competitions, effective from the 2024/25 season that will bring more opportunities for more clubs, but also for players and supporters alike, while keeping the pyramid open and democratic.
A central element of this agreement is the shared priority to nurture European club football at every level. This will manifest through a new revenue distribution model for the 2024-2027 cycle, boasting an unprecedented increase of solidarity payments that will benefit clubs in domestic league competitions.
The share reserved in the new cycle to clubs not participating in the league phase of UEFA competitions will increase to a total of 10%: besides the 3% reserved for clubs eliminated in the qualifying rounds, the share for clubs which have not participated at all will grow to 7%, (up from the current 4%), securing €440m per season – being €1.32bn over the cycle – in what is the sole redistribution scheme for clubs at a pan-European level. The new distribution system for participating clubs will give greater focus to participation (from 25% to 27,5% will be shared equally) and performance (from 30% to 37,5%), while the existing two pillars of market pool and coefficient will be merged and reduced (from 45% to 35%). Full details of the new system will be disclosed as soon as the technical work has concluded.
The MoU also captures the evolution of UEFA Club Competitions SA – the joint venture between UEFA and the ECA – to further drive the commercial development of UEFA’s club competitions.
The new agreement also mirrors the remarkable strides taken in the development of women’s football. UEFA and the ECA are united in their drive to enhance competitions, fostering the growth of the next generation of talented female players, and establishing the bedrock for a resilient and sustainable women's football ecosystem and business model.
Finally, the renewed MoU continues to prioritise critical issues such as environmental, social and corporate governance as well as financial sustainability to secure the overall well-being of European football.
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin said: "This new MoU builds upon the solid foundation of cooperation between UEFA and the ECA to enhance the open and values-based European football pyramid celebrated by fans worldwide. It will bring continuity, stability and healthy growth that will benefit every corner of Europe. I would like to thank the ECA Executive Board and its Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaïfi for their efforts in making this renewed agreement become a reality. Our cooperation will strengthen European football, and we look forward to it resulting in the further development and success of the game."
ECA Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaïfi said: “This renewed Memorandum of Understanding between ECA and UEFA until 2030 is fantastic news for all European clubs, and for everyone concerned with the stability and prosperity of European club football. The MoU formalises agreements between UEFA and ECA on a wide range of governance, representation, regulatory, financial and sporting matters and establishes solid foundations for the continued development of European club football.
“As the ECA family continues to rapidly multiply in size, representing clubs of all sizes in all corners of Europe, we very much look forward to our continued constructive, collaborative and trusted relationship with UEFA, ECA’s most important partner.”
This latest MoU reaffirms UEFA's steadfast commitment to democratic governance, building upon its earlier decision to incorporate the perspectives of players (via FIFPRO Europe) and fans (via Football Supporters Europe) alongside those of leagues and clubs in its decision-making process. This approach is aimed at nurturing an even more inclusive, resilient, and transparent governance framework for European football.
FIFPRO Europe, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA, England) and the Union Nationale des Footballeurs Professionnels (UNFP, France) welcome UEFA’s decision not to apply the new guidelines around additional stoppage time to European competitions.
This decision shows UEFA have listened to the players and their unions.
"This is an excellent player-centric decision which will make a difference for footballers across Europe," said FIFPRO Europe President and UNFP Vice-President David Terrier. "The fruitful cooperation with UEFA underlines our shared commitment to enhancing player welfare.
“This collaborative approach fills us with confidence for the future relationship between UEFA, professional players, and their respective unions.”
PFA CEO and FIFPRO board member Maheta Molango said: “Player workload is the number one issue when I speak to members at clubs who will be competing for club and country. It is totally unsustainable. It’s clear they are having to make really difficult decisions about how to protect their own health and fitness.
“The comments from Zvonimir Boban [UEFA’s Chief of Football] show that he gets it. From his own experience he understands the player perspective and the fact that this is ultimately a player wellbeing issue. I will keep saying it – we can’t keep pushing the players until they break.”
TO THE MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS OF FIFA
Circular no. 1854
Zurich, 24 August 2023
FIFA Women’s Football Member Associations Survey Report 2023
Dear Sir or Madam,
As part of The Vision 2020-2023, FIFA is working hand in hand with its member associations to further accelerate the growth of women’s football on and off the pitch.
In order to measure the progress of women’s football around the world, by means of circular no. 1832 dated 31 January 2023 FIFA invited all member associations to complete a survey on their women’s football landscape and provide information across different areas.
As a result of this process, FIFA is pleased to share with you the enclosed FIFA Women’s Football Member Associations Survey Report 2023. By getting access to and analysing the data of women's football globally, FIFA, the confederations, the member associations and the football stakeholders will be more equipped to make informed decisions on how to further accelerate the growth of the women's game and achieve the goals set within the FIFA Women's Football Strategy launched in 2018.
If you have any questions regarding the report, please do not hesitate to contact Marina Radulovic of the Women’s Football Division at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
We look forward to keep working with you to further accelerate the growth of women’s football all over the globe.
Yours faithfully,
FÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE
DE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
Fatma Samoura
Secretary General
The International Cricket Council (ICC) today announced an exciting association, with Mastercard becoming a Global Partner for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 to be held in India between 5 October and 19 November 2023.
Mastercard will continue its rich legacy of sports sponsorships to provide unique experiences to its cardholders and customers through exclusive benefits. With cricket being one of the most popular sports in India, South Asia and many other regions across the globe, the World Cup places fans at the centre of the action enabling them to experience the game like never before.
In addition to the exclusive 24-hour pre-sale window, Mastercard cardholders will be able to avail a number of benefits. These opportunities include the chance to meet cricket legends, get up close to the Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy and experience unique access on match days. Children of cardholders aged between 12-18 years will also have the chance to be a part of the flagbearer programme and there will be a wide range of offers for Mastercard cardholders on official ICC merchandise.
Mastercard's tie-up with the ICC highlights the brand's commitment to cricket and adds to the global technology company's prestigious international sports sponsorship portfolio which includes associations with the likes of UEFA Champions League and the PGA Tour.
ICC Chief Executive, Geoff Allardice said: “We are delighted to announce Mastercard as a global partner for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, the pinnacle event of the one-day game. Mastercard brings its rich experience of sports partnerships to the table, and the ICC is looking forward to collaborating with a renowned global brand to bring many benefits to cricket lovers around the world.”
Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Mastercard, Raja Rajamannar said: “Cricket is a huge passion for millions of people across the globe, particularly in India and South Asia. We are excited to partner with the ICC for the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, allowing us to bring fans closer to their passion for the sport. We’re dedicated to connecting our customers, cardholders and all cricket enthusiasts to priceless possibilities throughout the tournament.”
Morecambe FC has received a three-point deduction to be suspended until 30 June 2024 after admitting a breach of EFL Regulations for failing to pay its player wages on or around 28 March 2023.
The Club’s ultimate beneficial owner will also be required to deposit an amount equal to 125% of the forecast monthly wage bill - for all staff across the football club - in a designated Club account, which may be called upon by the Club should there be any future delays in processing wage payments.
The suspended sanction will take effect if the payment is not made by the owners of the Club to the Club Deposit Account as per the terms of with the Agreed Decision or there is any failure to pay its players on time until 30 June 2024.
The sanction was imposed in accordance with the terms of an ‘Agreed Decision’ which has formally been ratified by an Independent Disciplinary Commission Chair as per the requirements of EFL Regulations.
Morecambe FC will also pay the associated costs of ratification of the Agreed Decision.
The Agreed Decision can be found here.
Major Basketball League Malaysia, the top tier of the sport run by the Malaysia Basketball Association, has announced a new integrity partnership with Genius Sports to fight the threat of match-fixing.
As the trusted integrity partner to over 150 sports leagues and federations worldwide including the Indonesian Basketball League, Thailand Basketball Association and Vietnam Basketball Association, Genius Sports will provide Major Basketball League Malaysia with a comprehensive integrity programme to identify, combat and prevent match-fixing.
Genius Sports’ 24/7/365 Bet Monitoring System will use artificial intelligence to analyse global wagering activity on Malaysian basketball, cross-referencing real-time odds movements with proprietary predictive algorithms to automatically flag potentially suspicious activity. Through its global team of expert integrity operators, Genius Sports will thoroughly examine all monitoring data to provide Major Basketball League Malaysia with detailed reports and data-driven analysis.
To provide long-term protection from any threats, Genius Sports will also provide model rules and regulations to provide robust foundations for the league’s new integrity programme. Genius Sports will also deliver expert educational workshops, helping players, officials and coaches to understand how match-fixers operate, where they should report any attempts to manipulate games and the personal and professional consequences for not doing so.
“This collaboration between MBL and Genius Sports to safeguard the integrity of our competitions represents a major milestone in the development of Malaysia basketball,” said Frank Ch’ng, Commissioner of MBL. “We’re proud to be working alongside Genius Sports to ensure our games remain transparent, unpredictable and fair.”
“In the fight against match-fixing, sports must be proactive and invest in measures that both identify existing threats and provide long-term protection,” said Stephen Thurley, Head of Integrity Partnerships at Genius Sports. “We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Major Basketball League Malaysia, building a robust integrity programme that combines model rules and regulations with 24/7 monitoring and education services.”
Kuala Lumpur: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC)’s continuous efforts to empower its Member Associations (MAs) reached a significant milestone when the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was introduced to the AFC Champions League™ 2023/24 Group Stage matches for the first time earlier this week.
Implemented from the Knockout Stage since 2020, the 2023/2024 edition will mark the fourth instance of the AFC employing the use of the technology in the competition.
With several of the Confederation’s MAs, namely, the Islamic Republic of Iran (IR Iran), Philippines, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, embracing the technology for the first time, and Hong Kong, China set to implement VAR on 4 October, 2023, the total number of MAs who have adopted VAR in AFC Club Competitions since its introduction in the 2020 edition of the AFC Champions League™ now stands at 21.
Recognising the potential challenges that may arise in the process, the AFC has provided steadfast support to its MAs as they integrate the system successfully, thereby upholding its Vision and Mission of making football the number one sport throughout the Continent.
With the maximisation of the capabilities of its Members lying at the heart of the AFC's efforts, the Confederation lent its helping hand in various ways, including financing the installation of the VAR system in stadiums and organising multiple workshops and seminars, such as the AFC Football Technology Conference 2023, which allowed representatives from the AFC MAs to engage in knowledge-sharing exercises and enhance their understanding of VAR technology.
Similarly, the AFC also conducted several workshops for VAR Information Officers (VIOs) to ensure familiarity with the technology and its application. The VIOs were then deployed to assist in the implementation of VAR, particularly in regions where the system made its debut.
Moreover, the Confederation also partnered with several leading technology providers in order to offer solutions and guidelines on specific technical arrangements that are required for the seamless setting up of the VAR system in stadiums, in line with the rules and guidelines set by FIFA.
With the curtain coming down on the competition in its current form this season, the introduction of the VAR system from the Group Stage of the AFC’s marquee club competition marks yet another indication of the Confederation’s resolve in taking Asian football to even greater heights in the coming years.
Reading FC’s owner, Mr Yongge Dai, has been charged with misconduct after failing to comply with the order of an independent Disciplinary Commission which required him to deposit an amount equal to 125% of the Club’s forecast monthly wage bill in a designated account by 12 September.
The League considers these further proceedings against him personally are necessary given the repeated failings in meeting the Club’s funding requirements which have only a detrimental impact on the Club and its wider stakeholders.
This matter will now be considered by an independent Disciplinary Commission in accordance with EFL Regulations.
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All-time high of 18,353 cases, applications and enquiries received
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The Football Tribunal is part of FIFA’s ongoing commitment towards modernising the football regulatory framework and the FIFA dispute resolution system
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Report highlights a series of landmark achievements and regulatory changes
FIFA has today published the second edition of the Football Tribunal Report, which covers the period from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023.
The report provides a comprehensive overview of the Football Tribunal’s activities as well as those of the FIFA Players’ Status Department, which is part of the FIFA Legal & Compliance Division and acts as a secretariat to the Football Tribunal. During the period in question, the department received a record number of 18,353 cases, applications and enquiries, compared to 14,540 in the 2021/2022 period, with 2022/2023 representing a new all-time high for the Players’ Status Department.
The Football Tribunal, which is composed of three chambers: the Players’ Status Chamber, the Dispute Resolution Chamber and the Agents Chamber, was implemented on 1 October 2021 to consolidate the existing FIFA decision-making bodies into a single umbrella body.
As Emilio Garcia Silvero, FIFA Chief Legal and Compliance officer has iterated: “FIFA will continue to modernise its regulatory framework and dispute resolution system in line with its vision for 2020-2023 in order to further facilitate and streamline all proceedings before the decision making and judicial bodies, while maintaining the highest level of quality, transparency and traceability for all football stakeholders.”
In this context, since 1 May 2023, all proceedings before the Football Tribunal outside the FIFA Transfer Matching system are exclusively initiated and conducted through the FIFA Legal Portal which was launched a year earlier. The portal is a modern online platform that enables football stakeholders and legal representatives to lodge a claim and follow the relevant proceedings before the Football Tribunal in a fully digital, user-friendly environment.
The Football Tribunal Report 2022/2023 is available here and at www.fifa.com/legal.
Fans of the sport for purpose championship in the UK will be able to watch the racing action free-to-air and live across ITV1, ITV4 and ITVX. Programming will also be available to catch up on demand on ITVX.
Having been a partner of Extreme E since the series’ inception in 2021, and become the exclusive UK terrestrial broadcaster of live coverage in 2022 and 2023, this extension cements ITV’s commitment to the championship.
There is a shared ethos between Extreme E and ITV regarding its sustainability initiatives, with the latter committing to albert sustainable certification for all programmes produced and commissioned, creating shows with the biggest impact on audiences and the smallest impact on the planet.
ITV also supports the Climate Content Pledge, increasing the amount of content on-screen that supports the transition to a more sustainable world.
Ali Russell, Managing Director at Extreme E, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have extended our broadcast partnership with ITV. There is great passion for motorsport in the UK and I am thrilled that we will continue to work with ITV.
“This gives us the platform to showcase our pioneering, gender equal championship – a world-first for motorsport – to a wide, engaged audience, and also raise awareness of the climate crisis and the need for sustainable solutions to climate change.
“Both Extreme E and ITV have a shared drive and commitment on this, and so this extension is a really important one. We look forward to continuing our work with Niall [Sloane – ITV Director of Sport], who has been such a big supporter these past three years and we look forward to developing our partnership even further.”
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has terminated its exclusive commercial partnership with Football Marketing Asia (FMA) with immediate effect.
The AFC's decision takes into careful consideration the new challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving post-pandemic commercial environment.
The now terminated commercial deal, which was signed in 2018, gave FMA (then known as DDMC Fortis) the exclusive rights to market the AFC’s commercial properties for the 2021-2028 cycles.
The end of the exclusive partnership with FMA enables the AFC to explore new opportunities and collaborations that are better aligned with the current conditions, while securing its financial future for the long-term success of Asian football.
The AFC is now in the process of appointing a new exclusive commercial partner for the 2023-2028 term with more details to be announced in due course.
The FIS Code of Conduct of Skiers and Snowboarders has become international adopted for the safety of skier and snowboarders on the pistes. However not all rules can be applied to all FIS disciplines. As such, FIS has now released a Cross-Country specific Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct is as follows:
1. Respect for others:
Cross-country skiers must ski in such a manner that they do not endanger or prejudice others.
2. Respects for signs:
Trail marking signs must be adhered to at all times.
3. Choice of tracks:
On cross-country trails with multiple tracks, skiers must stick to the right hand track unless overtaking. It is also imperative that skating skiers remain on the skating tracks and do not cross into the classic tracks.
4. Overtaking:
A skier ahead is not obliged to give way to an overtaking skier. However, when possible the slower skier should allow faster skiers to overtake. When being overtaken, the slower skier should move to the right.
5. Encounter:
Cross-country skiers meeting while skiing in opposite directions shall keep to the right. Climbing skiers should give way to descending skiers.
6. Poles:
Cross-country skiers shall make the utmost effort to keep their poles close to the body whenever near other skiers.
7. Control of Speed:
Cross-country skiers, especially when descending, must always ski at a speed in which they can stop safely. All skiers should also keep a safe distance from the skiers ahead.
8. Keep the trail clear:
Skiers who stops must leave the track. In case of a fall, skiers should leave the track as quickly as possible.
9. Accidents:
In case of an accident, all persons should provide assistance.
10. Identification:
All witnesses to an accident, whether responsible or not, must remain at the scene of the accident and provide their identification.
In addition to undergoing a formal approval process, FIS has taken the step to translate the Cross-County Code of Conduct into 11 languages. These include German, French, Italian, Polish, Finnish, Norwegian amongst many others. The Cross-Country Code of Conduct is open to all. The English text can be downloaded here and translations can be requested via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The IWF is set to take a number of key decisions during the upcoming Congress and Executive Board meeting in Riyadh as it pushes ahead with reforming the organisation and establishing a clear plan for a stronger future.
The meetings will take place on the occasion of the IWF World Championships, which will feature around 700 athletes from 120 nations, including all 20 current world champions, as athletes compete for Paris 2024 Olympic qualification.
During the IWF Congress on September 12, National Federations will vote to approve the IWF Strategic Plan 2024-2032 which was developed following the broadest-ever consultation in the sport’s history. The plan provides a roadmap for weightlifting’s global development as the IWF looks to shape a new future as a clean, athlete-centred, and well-governed modern sport.
The Congress will also vote on proposed amendments to the IWF Constitution to provide better understanding and clarity, ensuring the document serves its purpose as an effective tool of governance.
Ahead of the Congress, the IWF Executive Board will approve the implementation process of the Athlete Gender Identity Policy which has been in force since August 1 and aims to promote inclusion while also respecting the integrity of competitions. The EB will also approve the Terms of Reference for the IWF Safety and Integrity Officer which was recently created by the IWF to enhance athlete safeguarding.
Speaking ahead of the key meetings, IWF President Mohammed Jalood said:
“Riyadh will be a momentous occasion for the IWF both on and off the field of play. Over 14 days of elite competition we will celebrate the world’s very best athletes as they compete for world titles and all-important Paris 2024 qualification. And away from the competition our Congress and Executive Board will take important decisions to safeguard our athletes and deliver the strongest possible future for our sport.
“The collaborative Strategic Plan 2024-2032 is critical in providing a clear framework for weightlifting and ensuring clean athletes and good governance are at the heart of our work. The implementation plan of the Athlete Gender Identity Policy and terms of IWF Safety and Integrity Officer also demonstrates our commitment to our athletes and ensuring they have an inclusive, safe, and fair environment to compete in.”
The ITA’s partnership with Caribbean RADO focuses on harmonising testing efforts to ensure an effective allocation of resources and intelligence-led programs at both national and international levels. The collaboration also supports the exchange of information between the ITA and the Caribbean RADO to the benefit of potential investigations and intelligence-led doping controls in the countries and for the athletes it represents. Finally, the collaboration also extends to identifying mutual efficiencies and opportunities for capacity building in the area of anti-doping education.
The Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organization is based in Barbados and acts as the secretariat to coordinate anti-doping efforts in the countries of Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Montserrat, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, The Virgin Islands (US), Trinidad and Tobago and Turks and Caicos Islands. It was established in 2005, one year after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) created the RADO program to strengthen the protection of athletes in regions where countries organise their anti-doping efforts within regional conglomerates and is one of three RADOs in the Americas. It is the third RADO to enter a partnership with the ITA after the Central Asian and Panamerican RADOs.
“We are very pleased to officialise our collaboration with the Caribbean RADO and strengthen our network of partnerships in the Americas,” said ITA Director General Benjamin Cohen. “Through our joint agreement we can work hand in hand to enhance anti-doping efforts for international-level athletes from the countries the Caribbean RADO represents and those who are tested within their territory. Seamless information-sharing between our two organisations will furthermore ensure that investigations into any potential doping offences can be conducted across borders and regions. I welcome the Caribbean RADO to our network of partnerships with national and regional anti-doping organisations and look forward to working with them for our joint cause of fair play and clean sport.”
“The Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organization is committed to fostering a clean-sport environment, ensuring that our member countries are compliant with the World Anti-Doping Code, while protecting the rights of athletes,” said Patrick Werleman, Chairman of the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organization. “As such, we focus on establishing key partnerships with regional and international organizations. We are enthusiastic about the new collaboration agreement between the Caribbean RADO and the International Testing Agency (ITA). We have worked well with the ITA on numerous occasions; and this MOU further highlights our continued commitment to the delivery of high-quality anti-doping services. The Caribbean RADO coordinates most of the sample collection in our member countries on behalf of local, regional, and international sporting bodies. This collaboration with the ITA is especially valuable in the areas of testing, information sharing and intelligence. We are looking forward to working closer and more effectively with the ITA to the benefit of our member countries and the Caribbean region as a whole.”
The ITA has already established bilateral collaboration agreements with over 30 National and Regional Anti-Doping Organisations on all continents of the world. The ITA strongly believes that the anti-doping community is able to bring the support of athletes to the next level by working hand-in-hand with all other anti-doping organisations. Consequently, the ITA will continue to welcome to its network any National and Regional Anti-Doping Organisation that wishes to strengthen synergies between national and international level anti-doping programs.
Tonga centre George Moala’s appeal against the decision of a Judicial Committee to suspend him for five matches arising from an act of foul play contrary to Law 9.18 (lifting tackle) in Tonga’s Rugby World Cup warm-up match against Canada on 10 August, 2023, was heard remotely on 24 August, 2023.
The independent Appeal Committee was chaired by Christopher Quinlan KC (independent Judicial Panel Chairman), Brenda Heather-Latu (Samoa) and Judge Mike Mika (New Zealand).
The Appeal Committee dismissed the player’s appeal against the entry point of the offending. Having considered the evidence before it, the Appeal Committee found that the Judicial Committee which heard the case at first instance was entitled to find that the tackle warranted a mid-range entry point and accordingly upheld the decision of the Disciplinary Committee.
As Moala has been selected in the Tonga Rugby World Cup 2023 squad the suspension remains as imposed by the Judicial Committee and therefore the player will miss the following matches:
- Tonga v Canada – 15 August, 2023
- Clermont Auvergne v Perpignan – 26 August, 2023
- Ireland v Tonga – 16 September, 2023
- Scotland v Tonga – 24 September, 2023
- South Africa v Tonga – 1 October, 2023
The full written decision will appear here once available.
Junaid Siddique of the United Arab Emirates has been fined 25 per cent of his match fee and two demerit points have been added to his disciplinary record for two Level 1 breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third Twenty20 International against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.
Siddique was handed an official reprimand and one demerit point was added to his disciplinary record for breaching article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.”
He was also fined 25 per cent of his match fee and one more demerit point was added to his disciplinary record for another offence later in the match, when he breached article 2.8, which relates to “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision.”
As a consequence, Siddique has two demerit points on his disciplinary record as he has not had any previous offences in the preceding 24-month period.
The first incident occurred in the fifth over of New Zealand’s innings, when Siddique moved in close proximity to dismissed batter Tim Seifert and shouted aggressively at him.
Then in the 17th over, Siddique showed dissent by using inappropriate language towards the umpire when an appeal for a dismissal was turned down.
Siddique admitted the offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, so there was no need for a formal hearing.
On-field umpires Akbar Ali and Shiju Sam, and third umpire Aasif Iqbal levelled the charges.
Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points.
Reading Football Club has today received a one-point deduction with a further three points suspended after an Independent Disciplinary Commission determined that the Club had breached EFL Regulations.
The breaches related to the Club having failed to pay its players’ wages on time and in full on or around 31 October 2022, 30 November 2022, and 28 April 2023.
Reading’s 2023/24 League One points tally will be adjusted immediately whilst Owner Dai Yongge has also been fined £10,000 and ordered to deposit an amount equal to 125% of the Club’s forecast monthly wage bill in a designated Club account, in an attempt to avoid further breaches.
If the 125% deposit is not paid within 28 days of the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision or there is any further failure to pay players’ salaries up until 30 June 2024, then the suspended points sanction will be activated.
The EFL remains extremely frustrated at the consistent failures of the Club’s ownership to meet its ongoing obligations under EFL Regulations, the consequences of which are having a negative impact for all those associated with Reading, particularly its staff members, supporters, and local community.
Whilst we acknowledge the independence of the commission and the sanction imposed, this outcome does fall some way short of the League’s existing sanctioning guidelines. The EFL will now undertake a full review of the decision issued, taking into consideration the recent previous sanctions imposed on the Club and their subsequent impact.
The Independent Disciplinary Commission’s Written Reasons can be viewed here.
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