FA investigates Zlatan over BetHard connection

Manchester United star striker Zlatan Ibrahimović could face disciplinary action from the FA, relating to his involvement with Malta-based operator BetHard Group.

This March, the online gambling group released a corporate statement detailing that it had secured Ibrahimović as the official Brand Ambassador of its flagship BetHard sportsbook.

At present, BetHard primarily targets the Nordic betting markets, operating under a Malta MGA licence. However, a number of affiliate websites have reported that BetHard Group will likely launch a UK property within the coming months.

Ibrahimović (36), who is widely considered Sweden’s greatest ever football player, has agreed to help launch and raise BetHard’s product and profile within target markets. 

Current FA rules prohibit active players and syndicated club personnel (coaches, managers, employees, etc) from promoting, consulting or being associated with betting enterprises.

“An individual participant, when acting in a personal capacity, shall not be permitted to advertise or promote any betting activity that the participant is prohibited from engaging in by rule E8(1) or E8(2).”

UK new sources report that if Ibrahimović is found to be in breach of the FA’s player conduct policy, the Manchester United striker could face serious sanctions including a potential ban.

At present, neither Ibrahimović representatives or BetHard Group have commented on the FA’s investigation.

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