Canadian Premier League Players Complete Betting Integrity Training Program
Nearly 200 players from the Canadian Premier League (CPL) have completed a comprehensive sports betting integrity education program, designed by the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA) in partnership with Professional Footballers’ Association Canada (PFA Canada). The initiative aims to safeguard the integrity of Canadian sports by educating players on the risks of match-fixing and gambling-related corruption.
A Nationwide Initiative
The IBIA program, developed using its 3R’s training model, has been delivered to all eight CPL teams across the country.
Starting in Ontario and concluding in Alberta, the program also reached players in Nova Scotia, Manitoba, and British Columbia.
This marks the completion of the first phase of a two-year agreement between IBIA and PFA Canada, with future sessions planned for continued player education.
Comprehensive Training for Players
Through a combination of in-person workshops and online resources, the initiative provided players with crucial knowledge about sports betting integrity.
Marco Carducci, President of PFA Canada and a player for Cavalry FC, praised the program’s effectiveness:
“The IBIA sports betting integrity training, in partnership with PFA Canada, was an incredibly beneficial experience for our players. Effective and easy-to-understand, it made clear what professional athletes need to know about sports betting integrity and how to report attempted corruption.”
The program also educated players on the legal consequences of match-fixing, the role of technology in monitoring betting markets, and how to report suspicious activities through the “red button” app designed for athletes.
Protecting Canadian Sports Integrity
Khalid Ali, CEO of IBIA, emphasized the importance of the program in maintaining the integrity of sports betting and safeguarding athletes from potential corruption.
“Decades of experience has shown that a combination of efficient regulation, education, and collaboration are essential to safeguarding the sports integrity ecosystem.
“We are delighted that the PFA Canada education program has been so successful and look forward to year two of the project,” Ali stated.
Dan Kruk, Executive Director of PFA Canada, also highlighted the program’s impact: “Through our work with IBIA, nearly 200 Canadian Premier League players attended PFA Canada’s Protecting the Integrity of the Game workshop this season.
“Stakeholders can be confident our members understand their obligations and know how to recognize and report match-fixing attempts.”
A Commitment to Long-Term Integrity
The CPL player education program is part of a broader three-year initiative funded by a CA$300,000 investment from IBIA and its members, including bet365, Betway, and FanDuel.
The goal is to provide Canadian sports and athletes with free face-to-face training designed to combat the risks of match manipulation and corruption.