Spain’s Basque Country Strengthens Sports Integrity with National Collaboration

Basque Country Enhances Sports Integrity Through Strategic Alliance with National Gambling Regulator

In a significant move to bolster sports integrity, Spain’s Basque Country has formally aligned with the national gambling regulator’s initiative. This strategic partnership grants the region access to the DGOJ’s groundbreaking Global Betting Market Research Service (SIGMA), setting a new standard for vigilance against match-fixing in sports.

A Unified Effort to Safeguard Sports

The collaboration signifies a unified effort between regional and national authorities to safeguard the integrity of sports. Euskadi’s integration into SIGMA is a testament to the importance of regional cooperation in combating sports-related fraud and ensuring fair play.

Ertzaintza to Play a Key Role

The Basque Country’s autonomous police force, Ertzaintza, will play a crucial role in this initiative. Their involvement signifies a robust approach to monitoring and investigating the betting market, with key data shared with Ertzaintza’s Gaming and Entertainment Unit to bolster efforts against match-fixing.

Expanding SIGMA’s Reach

The inclusion of the Basque Country in the SIGMA initiative follows the recent addition of the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE). This expansion underscores the growing recognition of SIGMA as a vital tool for stakeholders across the sports and betting landscape to combat corruption and maintain the integrity of competitions.

SIGMA: A Pillar of Spain’s Sports Integrity Framework

Created under the 2022 amendments to Spain’s 2011 Gambling Act, SIGMA stands as a central pillar in the nation’s efforts to combat match-fixing and fraud. The service fosters collaboration among licensed gaming operators, the National Sports Council, sports federations, and professional leagues, demonstrating the collective resolve to uphold the integrity of sports.

National Police Force Joins the Fight

In a further testament to the initiative’s importance, Spain’s national police force has secured an agreement to investigate potential match-fixing activities through SIGMA. This collaboration between the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and the Ministry of the Interior’s General Police Directorate amplifies the resources dedicated to safeguarding sports integrity.

A Commitment to Integrity and Fair Play

As the Basque Country embarks on this partnership, it reflects a nationwide commitment to integrity and fair play in sports. By leveraging SIGMA’s capabilities, Spain continues to lead by example, showing that collaboration and advanced monitoring are key to maintaining the honor of sporting competitions.

Ensuring a Fair and Secure Sports Environment

This initiative marks a significant step forward in Spain’s ongoing efforts to ensure a fair and secure sports betting environment. As the Basque Country joins forces with the DGOJ, the strengthened alliance promises to be a formidable deterrent against match-fixing, ensuring the continued integrity of sports across the nation.