Money Laundering through the Football Sector

Money Laundering through the Football Sector – July 2009
of transparency. To be successful, these measures could be developed further in cooperation with the
FATF.
149. Imposing similar regulations: Given the international character of football, it is important to
impose similar regulations to avoid choosing countries with the poorest regulations. In this context, there is
a need to recognise the sporting industry as a robust industry (requiring financial transparency, proper
external accounts, adequate financial management, and an effective regulatory framework).
150. International co-operation is a key factor: Difficulties in international exchange of information
and the use of tax havens are a major stumbling block in the detection and prosecution of money
laundering through the football sector. International co-operation and information sharing are key factors
in the fight against money laundering given the international dimension of the football sector. Countries
need to work cooperatively to identify and combat the use of the football sector for money laundering
purposes.
151. Internet gambling. There is a risk associated with internet gambling related to sports in general.
This issue could be investigated in a separate FATF typology study.
38 - © 2009 FATF/OECD