The 1xBet Fake Match Scandal – Full Investigation Summary
In October 2024, investigative outlet Bellingcat and the sports journalism platform Josimar published findings alleging that 1xBet had organised thousands of live-streamed amateur matches, some involving participants as young as 14 years old, for the purpose of generating betting markets. The matches were reportedly broadcast continuously and attracted around five million viewers per month.
Scale of the Operation
According to the published reports, the matches were staged using amateur players recruited in several countries. The fixtures were listed on the 1xBet platform alongside genuine professional competitions, with odds offered on match outcomes. Because the matches were amateur and obscure, they were difficult for regulators or bettors to verify independently.
How Fake Matches Affect Bettors
When the results of sporting events are pre-determined or manipulated, bettors are placing wagers without meaningful information. Market odds may be set to ensure the house retains a higher-than-normal edge, or specific outcomes may be engineered to void winning bets on technicalities.
1xBet's Response
The company did not issue a detailed public rebuttal to the Bellingcat and Josimar findings at the time of publication. The platform continued to list amateur competitions among its available betting markets.
Regulatory Fallout
In 2023, Morocco's National Judicial Police Brigade opened an investigation into 1xBet and other gambling sites on charges of operating an illegal gambling enterprise. Several countries have independently restricted the platform's access.
What This Means for Users
Bettors should be particularly cautious about placing wagers on low-profile amateur competitions listed on 1xBet, especially those without verifiable third-party records. Stick to major professional leagues where results are independently reported and transparent.