Chinese football is getting a serious clean-up. The country just handed out lifetime bans to 73 people involved in the sport. And we're not talking about minor figures here.
Among those banned for life are Li Tie, who coached China's national team and once played for Everton in the Premier League. Also on the list is Chen Xuyuan, the former president of the Chinese Football Association itself. Talk about cleaning house from the top down.
The Chinese Football Association didn't mess around with their statement either. They made it crystal clear that these 73 people are done with football forever. No coaching, no managing, no involvement whatsoever.
Prison Time and Bribes Worth Millions
Here's the thing that makes this really serious. Both Li and Chen were actually convicted in criminal court last year. We're talking about accepting millions of dollars in bribes.
Li Tie got 20 years behind bars. Chen Xuyuan? He received a life sentence. These aren't just football punishments - these are major criminal convictions.
Li managed China's national team from 2019 to 2021. Now he's watching from a prison cell as his legacy crumbles.
Top Clubs Lose Points Before Season Starts
But the punishment didn't stop with individuals. Nine Chinese Super League clubs are feeling the pain too with point deductions and fines.
Shanghai Shenhua, who finished as runners-up last season, got hit hardest. They're starting with a 10-point deficit and a fine of 1 million yuan (about $144,000). Tianjin Jinmen Tigers received the same harsh treatment.
Even the defending champions aren't safe. Shanghai Port will kick off the 2026 season already five points in the hole. That's a massive handicap for anyone considering their title defense chances this season.
The CFA explained that punishments were based on how serious each club's involvement was. They looked at the money involved, the nature of the dodgy dealings, and the impact on football's reputation.
This isn't even the first wave. Back in September 2024, another 43 officials and players received lifetime bans. The CFA is making good on their promise of "zero tolerance" for corruption.
For bettors following the Chinese Super League, these point deductions completely reshape the odds. Shanghai Port might be defending champions, but starting five points down changes everything about their title prospects.
