Sports
21:31, 25-Oct-2017
Ex-snooker world champion banned for illegal betting
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A former world snooker champion has been banned for six months for infringing betting rules over a 12-year period.
The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association announced the suspension of 41-year-old Englishman Stuart Bingham who was found guilty of breaking rules on betting on matches involving himself and other players following an investigation by the ruling body.
British snooker player Stuart Bingham in action /BBC Sports Photo
British snooker player Stuart Bingham in action /BBC Sports Photo
The association said he bet in his own name, used proxy accounts and an account under his manager’s name, wagering 35,771 pounds between 2003 and 2015.
Bingham’s ban is immediate with three months suspended for a year. The world number 10, who must also pay 20,000 pounds in costs, is free to compete again on Jan. 26.
Under the rules, players are barred from betting on any aspect of sanctioned tournaments. The world snooker body said there was no suggestion Bingham was involved “in any corrupt activity” or failed to perform to the best of his ability in matches.
Chairman Jason Ferguson said it was very disappointing to see such a high profile player fall foul of sport's betting rules. "Stuart is a great competitor and I have no doubt he has always played to the best of his ability,” Ferguson said.
Bingham, world champion in 2015, was not immediately available for comment.
Source(s): Reuters