In December 2025, Samuel Wahlberg, the coordinator for combating match-fixing at Sweden’s gambling regulator, Spelinspektionen, was chosen to lead the Group of Copenhagen. This network connects national platforms worldwide, focusing on countering corruption in sports through cooperation and shared strategies.
As an advisory body under the Council of Europe, the Group of Copenhagen plays a crucial role in supporting the Macolin Convention, which remains the sole international legal instrument dedicated to preventing match-fixing in sports. During the latest assembly, representatives from 31 countries’ national platforms gathered to discuss strategies and progress.
Wahlberg’s election as chair marks a significant development for Sweden, which only signed the Macolin Convention in 2024. His leadership is expected to enhance Sweden’s role in international efforts against match-fixing by providing access to broader networks and information-sharing systems.
Reflecting on his new role, Wahlberg expressed gratitude for the group’s confidence in him. He emphasized his commitment to maintaining the momentum of the Macolin Convention by encouraging more countries to ratify it, establishing additional national platforms, and expanding the convention’s outreach. Wahlberg’s vision includes fostering a more cohesive international front against sports manipulation.
Johan Röhr, the acting Director General of the Swedish Gambling Authority, lauded Wahlberg’s appointment. He noted that it represents a promising opportunity for Sweden to strengthen its international collaborations in the fight against match-fixing. Röhr envisions this leadership position facilitating more effective global strategies and cooperation.
The Advisory Group of the Group of Copenhagen, directed by the Follow-up Committee and in collaboration with the Council of Europe Secretariat, is tasked with enhancing the governance and operational capabilities of national platforms. It develops proposals and initiatives to bolster the Macolin community’s efforts against sports corruption.
Operating under the guidance of an Advisory Group Bureau, which includes the Chair, Vice-Chair, and five elected officials from public authorities, the group meets at least four times annually. These meetings are pivotal in coordinating actions and sharing best practices among member countries.
Despite the progress and unity demonstrated by the Group of Copenhagen, the fight against match-fixing is fraught with challenges. One primary concern is the varying levels of commitment and resources among different countries. While some nations have robust mechanisms and the political will to tackle sports corruption head-on, others may lack the necessary infrastructure or face political and economic hurdles that limit their effectiveness.
Moreover, the global nature of sports and gambling presents another layer of complexity. As sports betting becomes increasingly popular worldwide, the risk of cross-border match-fixing schemes rises. Criminal organizations can exploit legal and regulatory differences between countries, making it harder for authorities to detect and combat these illicit activities.
To address these challenges, the Group of Copenhagen focuses on promoting the adoption of the Macolin Convention’s tenets, which include creating a harmonized legal framework for cooperation across borders. The Convention encourages signatories to establish national platforms responsible for coordinating domestic efforts against match-fixing and participating in international collaborations.
The Group also emphasizes the importance of education and awareness-raising initiatives. By informing athletes, coaches, officials, and the public about the risks and consequences of match-fixing, the Group aims to reduce opportunities for corruption and foster a culture of integrity within sports.
One counterpoint to these efforts is the potential for regulatory efforts to stifle legitimate sports betting markets. As authorities tighten controls and increase scrutiny, they must balance the need for robust anti-corruption measures with the desire to maintain a healthy and lawful gambling industry. Striking this balance requires ongoing dialogue between regulators, operators, and stakeholders to ensure policies are effective without being overly restrictive.
In the broader context, the appointment of Samuel Wahlberg as chair of the Group of Copenhagen signifies an important step in the international fight against match-fixing. His leadership could catalyze further ratifications of the Macolin Convention and inspire more countries to take decisive action against sports corruption. However, achieving these goals will require sustained commitment, collaboration, and innovation from all parties involved. As the Group of Copenhagen moves forward, it will remain essential for member nations to work together, drawing on each other’s strengths and experiences to combat the evolving threat of match-fixing.
David Harrison stands tall in gambling journalism, marrying his firsthand casino experiences with a deep understanding of betting psychology. His articles transform complex gambling jargon into engaging tales of strategy and chance, making the world of betting accessible and enjoyable. David’s knack for narrative extends beyond print, making him a sought-after speaker on gambling trends and future bets. In the realm of gambling, David is both a scholar and a storyteller, captivating readers and listeners alike.
