Spelinspektionen reports fewer suspected match-fixing cases in 2025

Sweden’s gambling regulator Spelinspektionen has reported a notable decline in the number of suspected match-fixing cases during 2025 continuing a downward trend observed over recent years. The findings are based on reports submitted by sports integrity organisations licensed gambling operators and the regulator’s own supervisory and monitoring activities. While the figures suggest progress in preventive efforts authorities continue to caution that match-fixing remains a complex and evolving threat requiring constant vigilance.

The regulator’s annual overview reflects a combination of intelligence sharing structured reporting obligations and targeted oversight of licensed betting operators. Together these elements form the backbone of Sweden’s approach to safeguarding the integrity of sports competitions and maintaining public confidence in the regulated gambling market.

Declining reports over three consecutive years

According to Spelinspektionen data from 2025 the authority received two reports of suspected match-fixing from the integrity organisations with which it cooperates. This represents a decrease from five reports received in 2024 and a sharp fall from twelve reports recorded in 2023. The reduction over three consecutive years indicates a downward trend in identified cases although regulators stress that lower figures do not necessarily equate to the complete absence of manipulation.

Integrity organisations play a central role in detecting irregular betting patterns and suspicious sporting behaviour. Their reports are typically based on detailed analysis of betting markets match data and intelligence gathered in cooperation with sports federations and law enforcement bodies. The reduced number of reports may reflect improved deterrence and preventive frameworks but it may also underscore the increasingly sophisticated nature of match-fixing activities which can make detection more challenging.

Spelinspektionen has repeatedly emphasised that statistics on suspected cases must be interpreted cautiously. Match-fixing is often covert and adaptive with criminal actors adjusting methods to avoid detection. As a result official figures capture only those cases that come to the attention of monitoring systems rather than providing a definitive measure of the true scale of the problem.

New reporting obligations for licensed operators

A significant development affecting the 2025 data is the introduction of mandatory reporting requirements for licensed gambling operators. Since the summer of 2024 operators holding betting licences in Sweden have been legally obliged to report suspected match-fixing to Spelinspektionen without delay. This obligation forms part of broader regulatory efforts to strengthen market oversight and ensure timely information sharing.

During 2025 Spelinspektionen received four reports of suspected match-fixing from licensed betting operators. One of these reports related to the same suspicion already submitted by an integrity organisation indicating overlap between reporting channels. Because the reporting obligation is relatively new there are no comparable figures from previous years which limits the ability to assess trends in operator reporting over time.

The introduction of this requirement reflects the regulator’s view that operators are well positioned to detect irregular betting behaviour through customer activity monitoring and market analysis. By requiring immediate reporting Spelinspektionen aims to ensure that potential manipulation is flagged at an early stage allowing for coordinated responses involving sports bodies and law enforcement where appropriate.

Supervisory reviews of betting licence holders

Beyond reactive reporting Spelinspektionen has continued to prioritise proactive supervision of the licensed betting sector. Throughout 2025 the authority conducted supervisory reviews of all operators holding betting licences in Sweden. These reviews focused specifically on the operators’ internal procedures for detecting preventing and responding to suspected match-fixing.

The supervisory process examined areas such as risk assessment frameworks staff training monitoring systems and escalation protocols. Operators were expected to demonstrate that they had robust mechanisms in place to identify unusual betting patterns and to act promptly when suspicions arise. Where deficiencies were identified the regulator engaged with operators to ensure corrective measures were implemented.

This systematic oversight aligns with Sweden’s broader regulatory philosophy which places responsibility on license holders to uphold integrity standards while subjecting them to active supervision. The approach seeks to balance commercial freedom within the licensed market with clear expectations around compliance and social responsibility.

Monitoring during major international tournaments

Spelinspektionen’s integrity work during 2025 also extended to major international sporting events. The authority participated in monitoring activities during the UEFA Women’s European Championship held in Switzerland. Such tournaments are typically considered higher risk for match-fixing due to increased betting volumes global attention and the involvement of diverse markets.

During the championship Spelinspektionen’s work focused on risk assessments and preventive measures aimed at identifying potential manipulation or other integrity threats. Monitoring activities involved close cooperation with international integrity networks sports organisations and betting operators. The objective was to detect unusual betting patterns and to assess vulnerabilities before incidents could occur.

No match-fixing incidents were identified during the tournament according to the regulator. While this outcome was viewed positively authorities have reiterated that the absence of detected incidents does not eliminate the need for ongoing scrutiny particularly as betting-related crime can exploit even small regulatory gaps.

Cooperation through the Match-Fixing Council

A key element of Sweden’s integrity framework is cooperation between regulators law enforcement sports organisations and the gambling industry. This cooperation is formalised through the Match-Fixing Council which serves as a platform for information exchange strategic coordination and joint preventive initiatives.

Spelinspektionen has highlighted the role of this cooperation in strengthening Sweden’s ability to address match-fixing risks. By sharing intelligence and aligning approaches stakeholders aim to reduce fragmentation and ensure that suspicious activity is addressed consistently and effectively.

The importance of collaboration was underscored by comments from Samuel Wahlberg coordinator against match-fixing at Spelinspektionen who addressed the regulator’s assessment of the 2025 figures. He stated:

“The work against match-fixing has functioned well over the past year and cooperation with crime prevention authorities, the sports movement and the gambling industry within the Match-Fixing Council has been effective. We view the downward trend positively, but the work to prevent and detect manipulation continues. Match-fixers’ methods can be sophisticated and we cannot be certain that all manipulation is detected.”

This statement reflects a measured regulatory stance that recognises progress while acknowledging the inherent limitations of detection systems.

Ongoing risks and evolving methods

Despite the encouraging trend Spelinspektionen has consistently warned against complacency. Match-fixing networks often operate across borders and adapt quickly to regulatory changes. Methods may include the use of intermediaries manipulation of lower tier competitions or exploitation of emerging betting products that receive less scrutiny.

The regulator has noted that sophisticated actors may deliberately avoid high-profile events in favour of obscure matches where monitoring is weaker. This reality reinforces the need for continuous improvement in analytical tools data sharing and international cooperation.

Spelinspektionen has also emphasised the importance of education and awareness within the sports community. Athletes officials and clubs play a critical role in identifying and reporting suspicious approaches. Preventive education initiatives are therefore seen as an essential complement to technical monitoring systems.

Regulatory balance and legal caution

From a legal and regulatory perspective Sweden’s approach aims to strike a careful balance. The regulator seeks to protect sports integrity and consumer confidence without making unfounded allegations against individuals or organisations. Reports of suspected match-fixing are treated as preliminary assessments rather than conclusions of wrongdoing and further investigation is required before any enforcement action can be taken.

This cautious approach reflects the legal sensitivities surrounding match-fixing allegations which can have serious reputational consequences. Spelinspektionen has repeatedly stressed that its role is to assess risks and coordinate responses rather than to determine criminal liability which remains the responsibility of judicial authorities.

Outlook for future integrity efforts

Looking ahead Spelinspektionen has indicated that integrity monitoring will remain a central priority. The regulator is expected to continue refining its supervisory practices enhancing data analysis capabilities and strengthening cooperation at both national and international levels.

The introduction of mandatory operator reporting is likely to generate more comprehensive intelligence over time as operators become more familiar with their obligations. As datasets grow the regulator may gain deeper insights into patterns and emerging risks which could further improve preventive measures.

While the decline in reported cases during 2025 provides grounds for cautious optimism authorities remain clear that match-fixing cannot be fully eradicated. Continuous adaptation sustained cooperation and a strong regulatory framework will be essential to maintaining the integrity of Sweden’s sports and gambling markets.

Conclusion

The 2025 figures from Spelinspektionen indicate a positive trend in Sweden’s fight against match-fixing with fewer suspected cases reported compared with previous years. The combination of mandatory operator reporting, proactive supervisory reviews, monitoring during major tournaments and structured cooperation through the Match-Fixing Council demonstrates a comprehensive approach to safeguarding sports integrity. However, authorities remain cautious, emphasising that sophisticated methods of manipulation may go undetected and continued vigilance is essential. Moving forward, Sweden’s regulatory framework, enhanced data analysis and international cooperation will play a critical role in maintaining transparency, protecting players and ensuring that both sports and gambling markets operate with integrity and trust.

FAQs

What is Spelinspektionen’s role in preventing match-fixing?
Spelinspektionen oversees licensed gambling operators monitors betting markets and coordinates with integrity bodies and authorities to detect and prevent suspected match-fixing.

How many suspected match-fixing cases were reported in Sweden in 2025?
In 2025 the regulator received two reports from integrity organisations and four reports from licensed operators with some overlap between them.

Why did reported cases decline compared with previous years?
The decline may reflect improved preventive measures and cooperation but authorities caution that sophisticated methods can still evade detection.

What new obligations apply to gambling operators?
Since summer 2024 licensed betting operators must report suspected match-fixing to Spelinspektionen without delay.

Did Sweden detect match-fixing during major tournaments in 2025?
No match-fixing incidents were identified during the UEFA Women’s European Championship monitored by the regulator.

How does Spelinspektionen supervise betting operators?
The authority conducts supervisory reviews focusing on internal procedures risk assessments and monitoring systems.

What is the Match-Fixing Council?
It is a cooperative platform involving regulators law enforcement sports organisations and the gambling industry.

Does a reported suspicion mean wrongdoing is proven?
No reports indicate suspicions that require further assessment and do not constitute findings of guilt.

Why is international cooperation important?
Match-fixing often crosses borders making cooperation essential for effective detection and prevention.

Will integrity monitoring increase in the future?
Spelinspektionen has indicated that integrity monitoring and preventive measures will remain a priority going forward.