UEFA launch investigation into Zlatan Ibrahimović’s Bethard stake
European football’s governing body to explore Swede’s alleged 10% share in Malta-licensed sports betting business
UEFA has launched an investigation into AC Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimović’s involvement with Nordic sports betting operator Bethard.
The Swede joined the Malta-licensed operator in March 2018 as a brand ambassador and became a co-owner after taking a reported 10% share in the company.
According to reports in Swedish outlet Aftonbladet, Ibrahimović owns the stake through his company Unknown AB, making him the group’s fourth-largest shareholder.
However, UEFA rules state that players who are financially involved with gambling companies may not be allowed to play in their competitions.
This season, Ibrahimović has played for AC Milan in the Europa League six times, five in the competition-proper and once in the qualifying stages.
A UEFA statement read: “In accordance with Article 31(4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR), a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has today been appointed to conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding a potential violation of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations by Mr. Zlatan Ibrahimović for having an alleged financial interest in a betting company.
“Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course,” the statement concluded.
Ibrahimović joined Bethard when he made his transfer from Manchester United to MLS franchise LA Galaxy. Having spent time in the US, and away from UEFA competitions, the forward’s relationship with Bethard had seemingly slipped under the radar.
He only made his return to European football in January 2020 when he re-joined AC Milan, having spent two years with the Rossoneri between 2010 and 2012.
When he first linked-up with Bethard, Ibrahimović said he had been “courted” by gambling firms for years.
He said: “I have obviously been courted by betting companies throughout my career, but up until now I have not been presented with anything that has triggered me.
“With Bethard, there was something different as it’s a company with Swedish roots. The founders are from my home town and they are true challengers who really want to do things differently.”
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Bethard CEO Erik Skarp said: “These are questions that should be asked to FIFA. We have an agreement with Zlatan that we follow and if problems arise, we will handle it together with him.”