Controversies and Sanctions Mark Major Sports Events in 2025
The sports world in 2025 saw multiple controversies and sanctions across various disciplines, sparking debates on integrity and fair play.
In Go, 19-year-old Chinese prodigy Qin Siyue faced severe penalties after being accused of using AI assistance and a concealed phone during competitions. The national Go association imposed an eight-year ban and removed her ranking.
The Baduk world championship final was disrupted by the mid-tournament introduction of new scoring rules, affecting the match where Byun Sang-il defeated Ke Jie. Ke Jie described the experience as psychological trauma amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions.
Norwegian ski jumping was in turmoil after five jumpers and three male officials were charged with manipulating equipment by using reinforced thread to alter jump suits. Coach Magnus Brevig admitted wrongdoing, with past admissions of cheating noted from Daniel-André Tande and Remen Evensen.
In January, Juan Bernabe, trainer of Lazio's eagle mascot, was dismissed after posting boastful photos following penile prosthesis surgery aimed at increasing sexual performance.
The World Pool Championship in Jeddah was overshadowed by accusations of wax on cue balls, referred to as "waxgate." The World Pool Association declared waxing as cheating to be addressed under its rules, though no punishments were disclosed six months later.
At the World Stone Skimming Championship on Easdale Island, organiser Kyle Mathews disqualified competitors suspected of stone tampering, such as notching or altering circularity. The use of security checks and a magnet by the ringmaster was highlighted as efforts to protect the sport's integrity.
China's curling team encountered controversy at the World Curling Championship in Moose Jaw for allegedly burning and kicking rocks during matches. As curling lacks VAR technology, these actions sparked calls for integrity reforms. China lost to Switzerland in the semifinals and to Canada in the bronze medal match.
Finally, in a notable disciplinary action, Axelle Berthoumieu received a 12-match ban (later reduced to nine on appeal) for biting opponent Aoife Wafer, which contributed to an anti-sports personality nomination for 2025.
