IOC Signs MoU with Interpol

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) have looked to protect its future events from issues such as match-fixing and corruption by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Interpol, medicine the International Criminal Police Organisation.

Interpol will work with the IOC to identify and address issues which could affect the security and integrity of matches and competitions, such as doping, match-fixing and illegal or irregular sports betting activities, and attempted corruption of match officials and players, particularly during the Olympic Games and Youth Olympic Games.

IOC President Thomas Bach said: “Interpol has the ability and the necessary instruments to instigate cross-border investigations, coordinate different law enforcement bodies, and gather intelligence. In our determined fight to protect the integrity of sport on behalf of clean athletes, Interpol’s involvement is absolutely crucial. The MoU has further cemented the close relationship we already enjoy.”

The agreement also provides for the world police body to give additional support to the IOC in ensuring the security of international matches and competitions.

“As the world’s largest law enforcement organization, it is natural for Interpol to team up with the International Olympic Committee to secure and protect such universal events as the Olympic Games and Youth Olympic Games,” said Interpol Secretary General Ronald K. Noble.

“It is by providing the widest possible law enforcement support to global sports events that fans, competitors and officials can enjoy them as safely and securely as possible. Without our collective commitment and action against threats such as illegal and irregular betting, the confidence in fair play by the public and our youth will erode and eventually vanish.

“Interpol’s agreement with the International Olympic Committee therefore represents a significant step forward in protecting the integrity of sport,” concluded the Head of Interpol.