Former Chinese National Men’s Football Team Coach Li Tie on Trial for Bribery Charges
The Xianning Intermediate People’s Court in Hubei Province held a first-instance public hearing on March 28, 2024, for Li Tie, the former head coach of the Chinese National Men’s Football Team. Li Tie is facing charges of accepting bribes, offering bribes, and bribery of non-state personnel.
According to the Xianning Municipal People’s Procuratorate, Li Tie allegedly used his position as the head coach of the Chinese National Men’s Football Team to influence player selections, game outcomes, and club signings in exchange for illegal payments totaling over 50.89 million yuan. The allegations span from 2015 to 2021, during which Li Tie held coaching positions at various football clubs.
During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence, and Li Tie and his defense conducted cross-examination. Li Tie expressed guilt and repentance in court, while the court adjourned to announce the verdict at a later date. Over 40 individuals, including NPC deputies, CPPCC members, journalists, and members of the public, attended the trial.
In addition to Li Tie, the cases of other football officials, including Huang Song, Fu Xiang, and Gu Jianming, were also heard in different courts on the same day, highlighting the ongoing crackdown on corruption and bribery within the Chinese football industry.
The outcome of Li Tie’s trial will be eagerly awaited by football fans and authorities alike as the Chinese government continues its efforts to clean up the sport and promote transparency and fairness in football administration.