Bulgarian tennis official Stefan Milanov has received a substantial 16-year ban from the sport, announced by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA). This significant suspension follows a previous six-month ban in 2022, which was imposed due to Milanov’s involvement in Tennis betting offences.
Milanov faced serious charges, with the ITIA finding him guilty of 17 violations against the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program. Despite the gravity of these allegations, Milanov did not challenge the charges brought against him.
Earlier Suspension
It follows an earlier suspension that he got in 2022 during his tenure at Milanov.
Stefan Milanov banned for 16 years is part of a punishment following Milanov’s six-month suspension, which was due to acts related to betting offences that occurred in 2022 He confessed to all breaches that were revealed by the ITIA at that time.
Milanov gambled on several tennis games including one where he was an official. Section D.1.a of the 2022 TACP prohibited covered persons from wagering on tennis competitions.
The duration of the suspension was six months, from 15 November 2022 to 14 May 203. The sanction likewise levied a fine of ten thousand dollars, $5000 suspended.
Hefty Fine Imposed
The case was presided over by Amani Khalifa, an independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Officer. It resulted in not only a lengthy ban but also imposed a hefty fine of $75,000 on Milanov. His failure to dispute the ITIA’s accusations, particularly regarding his conduct in five tennis matches he officiated in 2021, led to an implicit admission of guilt for all the alleged breaches.
The range of offences Milanov was charged with is extensive. It comprises of assisting the betting on tennis matches, tampering with or holding back entry scoring data. Plus involvement in commission/offences related to corruption and not fully cooperating with ITIA’s investigations.
Stefan Milanov Banned for 16 Years – Suspension to remain in Force until 2039
The suspension would take effect from 28 December 2023, and remain in force until 2039. In this period, Milanov is not permitted to be in any form both as an official or spectator. Specifically, during tennis activities that are authorized and sanctioned by ITIA member bodies. These include international bodies such as ATP, ITF, WTA, Tennis Australia, The French Federation and the Royal Lawn Courts among others.
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