Doping & Cheating
ESIC Imposes Two-Year Ban on Esports Player Swabry “MAJOR” Iddi
the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has announced a decisive disciplinary action against professional esports player Swabry “MAJOR” Iddi. This follows a detailed investigation into Mr. Iddi’s conduct during a FIFA match against LEFTY on 8 May 2023, which revealed serious breaches of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
Case Overview
The allegations against Mr. Iddi are grave and multifaceted, primarily revolving around the manipulation of match outcomes and engagement in corrupt activities. These include:
- Fixing or improperly influencing the result, progress, conduct, or other aspects of a match.
- Manipulating specific incidents in a match for betting or other corrupt purposes.
Investigation and Charges
The ESIC’s investigation was extensive, encompassing an analysis of betting records, account registrations, digital footprints, and betting patterns. The evidence, significantly bolstered by contributions from Anti-Corruption Supporter member betting operators, led to the formal charges against Mr. Iddi. These charges include:
- Corruption (Article 2.1 of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code), encompassing:
- Fixing or influencing improperly any aspect of a match.
- Ensuring the occurrence of a particular incident in a match for betting or other corrupt purposes.
- Involvement in bribery or other rewards to influence a match’s outcome or specific incidents.
- Additional offences under the ESIC Code of Conduct, including conduct that discredits esports, the game, event, ESIC, or its members.
Despite the opportunity for a plea bargain, which could have led to a reduced sanction, Mr. Iddi has not engaged with the ESIC disciplinary process. Consequently, the ESIC is compelled to enforce the sanctions as per its Anti-Corruption Code.
Sanction Duration
The sanction imposed on Mr. Iddi is a two-year ban, effective from the date of the initial Notice of Charge and concluding at midnight on June 14, 2025. During this period, Mr. Iddi is barred from participating in any capacity in events organized by ESIC members.
Conclusion
This action by the ESIC underscores its commitment to maintaining integrity and fair play in esports. The commission’s rigorous investigation and the subsequent sanction against Mr. Iddi serve as a stern reminder of the consequences of violating the Anti-Corruption Code. The esports community continues to watch closely as the ESIC upholds its standards, ensuring a fair and competitive environment for all participants.
Via: ESIC
