The suspension of winger Max Alves by the Colorado Rapids in Major League Soccer (MLS) is due to ongoing investigations into allegations of illegal gambling involving the Brazilian player. Alves is accused of receiving $12,000 for receiving a yellow card during a game against the LA Galaxy on September 17, 2022. He received the yellow card just 90 seconds after entering the game in the second half.
According to reports from Brazilian newspaper O Globo, Alves is also being investigated by the Brazilian Public Ministry of Goias as part of a wider match-fixing investigation. So far, sixteen individuals have been charged in relation to match-fixing to benefit sports gamblers, including seven professional football players. However, Alves has not been charged at this time.
The investigation into these allegations is ongoing, and it is important to allow the proper authorities to conduct their inquiries and determine the facts surrounding the case. The Colorado Rapids have taken the appropriate action of suspending Alves while the investigation is ongoing.
Colorado Rapids say gamer ‘ taken off all staff activities’
The Colorado Rapids have confirmed that a player has been suspended in connection with allegations of illegal sports betting. However, they have not disclosed the identity of the player. Major League Soccer (MLS) has also acknowledged the allegations and stated that they take them seriously. The league will be conducting an investigation into the matter.
The Colorado Department of Revenue, which oversees sports betting in the state, has been made aware of the situation. The department is currently looking into the matter, but no further details have been provided at this time.
It is important to allow the investigation to proceed and for the proper authorities to determine the facts surrounding the allegations. The integrity of the game is of utmost importance, and the league and relevant authorities will take appropriate action based on the outcome of the investigation.
Text messages from supposed ringleader point out Alves’ participation
The evidence against Max Alves, as reported by U Globo and Brendan Ploen of the Colorado Post, appears to be substantial. The seized WhatsApp messages and screenshots suggest that Alves received a payment of approximately $12,000 in connection with receiving a yellow card in a match against the LA Galaxy. The messages also indicate that Alves had prior knowledge of the arrangement and that he was involved in discussions with the alleged instigator, Bruno Lopez.
Furthermore, the texts obtained by U Globo allegedly show Alves attempting to involve another player, Zeca from the Houston Dynamo, in the group of match fixers.
These allegations, if proven to be true, would be a serious breach of the integrity of the game. The investigation by Major League Soccer (MLS) and relevant authorities will be crucial in determining the facts and taking appropriate action.
It is important to allow the investigation to proceed and for all parties involved to cooperate fully. The outcome of the investigation will have significant implications for the players and the sport as a whole.
NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE has penalized players more than wrongful gambling
Professional sports leagues, including the National Football League (NFL), are taking a strong stance against players who cross the line between competing and sports betting. The integrity of the game is of utmost importance to these leagues, and they are implementing strict policies to address any violations.
The NFL has had its share of issues regarding players and sports betting. In recent cases, five players were found to be in violation of the NFL’s betting policy. Three of them were suspended for at least a year for allegedly betting on NFL games, while the other two were suspended for six games for placing bets from NFL facilities but not on NFL games.
The league has taken a firm stance on these violations, with Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasizing the importance of protecting the integrity of the game. Upholding the integrity of the game is seen as crucial to the success of the NFL and maintaining public confidence in professional football. Any actions that put the integrity of the game at risk have the potential to damage the league’s reputation and undermine the trust of fans and fellow players.
By enforcing strict policies and taking decisive actions against those who violate them, the NFL aims to send a clear message about the consequences of compromising the integrity of the game