Fixed Matches
What are Fixed Matches? Understanding Match Fixing in Sports
A Fixed Match (or Fixed Game) is a sporting event where the participants deliberately manipulate the outcome. These matches raise concerns about the integrity of the sport and its adherence to fair play principles. People often refer to them as “contractual matches.” Specialized services now expose these fixed matches to the public.
What is Match Fixing?
Match fixing has existed as long as sports have been played. Though it’s harder to spot today, fixed matches still occur, especially in sports with large betting markets. In a fixed match, players, coaches, or officials intentionally manipulate the game to achieve a prearranged result or score.
Why Do Fixed Matches Happen?
Match fixing usually occurs for one primary reason: gambling. Bookmakers want to maximize their profits, and knowing the result of a match ahead of time helps them place more confident bets. However, it’s not easy to involve an entire team or franchise in such schemes. Instead, individuals like players or coaches typically get involved.
Those who participate in match fixing often receive significant financial rewards in return. Powerful figures in the sports betting industry frequently influence them to take part. While soccer remains the most common sport for fixed matches, other sports like tennis or cricket also face the risk of manipulation.
Other Forms of Match Fixing: Tanking in the U.S.
In the U.S., people often use the term “tanking” to describe teams that intentionally lose games to improve their draft picks. Although tanking differs from traditional match fixing, both involve manipulating the outcome for an advantage. Tanking is typically not tied to gambling but can still affect the betting world, as bettors take advantage of teams intentionally losing games.
The Impact of Match Fixing on Sports
Fixed matches harm the integrity of sports by distorting fair competition. Financial gain, particularly from sports betting, usually motivates match fixing. By understanding why match fixing happens and recognizing the risks involved, fans can better appreciate the importance of maintaining fairness in sports.
