Xiangqi Integrity Crisis: Reigning Asian Games Champion and Grandmasters Banned for Life
The recent crackdown on corruption in xiangqi, or Chinese chess, has sent shockwaves through the sport in China. With reigning Asian Games champions and several grandmasters banned for life, the integrity crisis facing the game has come to the forefront.
The joint task force of the game’s governing body and police departments has been working tirelessly to root out illegal activities in domestic xiangqi competitions, such as match-fixing and bribery. The latest round of punishments saw three high-profile players, including 2023 Asian Games gold and silver medalists, receive lifetime bans from the sport. This adds to the previous bans handed out to former world champions, highlighting the severity of the issue.
The investigation into these violations was sparked by leaked audio clips in 2023, revealing discussions of match-fixing between players. The scandal, now known as “Recording Gate”, exposed the manipulation of match results, unfair distribution of prize money, and control of player promotions within the sport.
The fall of these top players has raised questions about the lack of supervision and transparency in the domestic game. The pursuit of instant promotion, national titles, and prize money has led some players to take desperate and illegal steps to get ahead.
Experts and insiders are calling for a complete overhaul of the game’s system, with stricter supervision and stronger administration. Incorporating high-tech methods for monitoring competitions may be necessary to prevent future corruption.
In addition to player punishments, top officials with the administrative center of chess and cards sports have also been removed from their posts. The silence from these officials raises further questions about the extent of corruption within the sport.
As xiangqi grapples with this integrity crisis, the future of the game in China remains uncertain. Only time will tell if these measures are enough to restore trust and credibility to this ancient board game.