CS: GO Pro Players Banned for Illegal Betting

Controversy hits the MDL (Mountain Dew League) for CS: GO as multiple players are hit with a ban. The ESIC and ESEA have released a joint statement detailing the actions they have taken with regards to the allegations. Potential lawful action to be taken against the players.

CSGO Pro Players Banned for Illegal Betting

The recent controversy in professional Esports has seen seven CS: GO pro players banned for allegedly partaking in illegal betting.

    1. Stephen “sjanastasi” Anastasi (LAKERS) [now playing as “stvn”]
    2. Akram “akram” Smida (Rooster) [now playing as “ADK”]
    3. Daryl “Mayker” May (Ground Zero)
    4. Corey “netik” Browne (Rooster) [sometimes spelled “nettik”]
    5. Damian “JD/The Real Goat” Simonovic (Rooster 2)
    6. Carlos “Rackem” Jefferys (Rooster 2)
    7. Joshua “jhd” Hough-devine (Rooster 2)

The players listed above have been accused of betting on several matches during the MDL Australia (Mountain Dew League) as well as other CS: GO matches. 

A joint investigation was held by the ESIC (Esports Integrity Commission) and the ESEA. They found multiple instances of these players betting on themselves during professional matches. The investigation found that not only were the players making bets on themselves but that their associates were also making identical bets, compounding the issue further.

POLICE HAVE BEEN CONTACTED

As of right now, all players mentioned have been hit with a 12-month ban across all ESIC associated leagues. Even with the ban in place, the ESIC is continuing their investigation stating “ESIC notes that the outcomes, in this case, do not exclude the possibility of additional outcomes relating to the Offending Parties”.

Furthermore, there could be serious lawful ramifications to their actions. Betting within a sport you are a part of can come with some very real consequences. Because of this, the “ESIC has referred this matter to law enforcement.”

The joint statement from the ESIC and ESEA ends with a reminder to other players of the consequences of player betting (and their associates) within professional sports.

With seven CS: GO pro players banned, a few new slots opening up in the MDL. Maybe now is the time to scratch up on your CS: GO skills and aim for the pro leagues! Check out our beginners’ guide to get a head start on the competition. 

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