China’s football authorities have issued lifetime bans to 73 individuals and imposed sanctions on 13 clubs following a far-reaching investigation into match-fixing and corruption. According to reports, the Chinese Football Association said the penalties followed a systematic review intended to reinforce discipline across the sport and restore competitive integrity.
Among those banned is Li Tie, the former national team head coach and ex-Everton midfielder. Li is already serving a 20-year prison sentence for bribery after being convicted in December 2024. The CFA confirmed that he and 72 others are now barred from all football activities.
The disciplinary actions strike heavily at the top tier of Chinese football. Of the 16 clubs that competed in the 2025 Chinese Super League season, 11 will face points deductions and financial penalties. After relegation changes, nine teams will begin the 2026 season in March with negative point totals.
Tianjin Jinmen Tiger and Shanghai Shenhua received the strongest sanctions, each losing 10 points and receiving RMB 1m fines. Defending champions Shanghai Port will start the season five points down and pay a RMB 400,000 fine, the same penalty applied to Beijing Guoan.
The CFA did not provide full details of the specific schemes uncovered, noting only that they involved match-fixing, gambling and bribery. Officials said penalties were determined based on the scale and impact of the illicit activity.
The crackdown comes as many Chinese clubs face deep financial strain. Guangzhou FC, once the most decorated club in league history, collapsed in 2025 after failing to settle outstanding debts.
The CFA reiterated its zero-tolerance stance and pledged immediate action against any future violations.
Former CFA chairman Chen Xuyuan is already serving a life sentence for taking bribes worth about US$11m
