In a recent development, the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has imposed a two-year ban on UK-based FIFA player Deluxe, also known as Flynn Smith. This disciplinary action stems from allegations of improper influence on match outcomes and involvement in corrupt betting practices. The ban, which came into effect on April 4th, 2023, will last until midnight on April 3rd, 2025.
ESIC, a not-for-profit members’ association established in 2015, is dedicated to upholding integrity in esports by combatting issues such as cheating, match manipulation, and doping. With offices in both the UK and Australia, ESIC plays a crucial role in safeguarding the fairness of competitive gaming.
The allegations against Deluxe came to light during a SIS FIFA match against MAJOR on February 24th, 2023. ESIC, in a press release, stated that Deluxe was “alleged to have engaged in corrupt behavior, which contravened the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.”
ESIC conducted a thorough investigation, which included reviewing match footage, analyzing betting patterns, and conducting interviews. While details of the investigation remain confidential to protect its integrity, ESIC shared that the evidence collected indicated Mr. Smith’s involvement in activities that violated articles 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code. These activities encompassed improper influence on match outcomes and participation in corrupt betting practices.
In response to the charges, FIFA player Deluxe accepted responsibility and reached a plea bargain arrangement with ESIC.
It’s important to note that ESIC’s mission extends beyond individual disciplinary actions. The organization aims to maintain the highest standards of integrity in esports by proactively addressing issues that threaten the industry’s reputation.
SIS (Sports Information Services), a prominent supplier of betting services to retail and online operators based in the UK, played a significant role in the investigation. SIS also offers SIS Competitive Gaming, a product featuring live head-to-head video game competitions designed to appeal to both traditional sports bettors and esports enthusiasts. This product boasts around-the-clock availability and hosts up to 150,000 live events annually. Notably, SIS is an Anti Corruption Supporter member of ESIC.
Esports News UK has reached out to both SIS and Flynn ‘Deluxe’ Smith to offer them the opportunity to respond to these developments. We will update this article with any comments they may provide.
This incident involving Deluxe follows a series of recent announcements from ESIC. These include the suspension of Joel ‘Joel’ Holmlund, a request for information regarding an organized criminal utilizing the alias “DEzCurse” to approach professional CSGO players on Discord, and the acceptance of an appeal made by Allan ‘Rejin’ Petersen.
ESIC remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in esports. The organization emphasizes its dedication to conducting investigations and imposing sanctions when necessary to safeguard the industry’s integrity. Furthermore, ESIC encourages active participation from the esports community in promoting fair play and integrity within the realm of competitive gaming.
This announcement comes on the heels of the 2023 ESIC Global Esports Summit, which took place in London earlier this year.
FAQs:
What is the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC)?
ESIC is a not-for-profit members’ association established in 2015 to uphold integrity in esports by addressing issues such as cheating, match manipulation, and doping.
Why was FIFA player Deluxe banned by ESIC?
Deluxe received a two-year ban for his alleged involvement in improper influence on match outcomes and corrupt betting practices during a FIFA match.
When does Deluxe’s ban come into effect, and when does it end?
The ban on Deluxe began on April 4th, 2023, and will last until midnight on April 3rd, 2025.
What evidence led to Deluxe’s ban?
ESIC’s investigation, which included reviewing match footage and betting patterns, pointed to Deluxe’s involvement in activities that violated the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
Did Deluxe admit to the charges?
Yes, FIFA player Deluxe accepted responsibility for the charges and reached a plea bargain arrangement with ESIC.
What role did SIS play in this investigation?
SIS, a supplier of betting services to operators, played a significant role in the investigation. SIS also offers SIS Competitive Gaming, a product featuring live video game competitions.
What other recent actions has ESIC taken?
ESIC has recently suspended Joel ‘Joel’ Holmlund, requested information about an organized criminal using the alias “DEzCurse” to approach CSGO players, and accepted an appeal by Allan ‘Rejin’ Petersen.
What is ESIC’s broader mission in esports?
ESIC is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in esports and aims to conduct investigations and impose sanctions when necessary to protect the industry’s integrity.
How can the esports community contribute to promoting integrity?
ESIC encourages active participation from the esports community in promoting fair play and integrity within competitive gaming.
What was the significance of the 2023 ESIC Global Esports Summit in London?
The 2023 ESIC Global Esports Summit was a notable event in the esports industry, emphasizing the importance of integrity and fairness in esports.