Former Head of Chinese Football Association Admits to Taking Bribes

Chen Xuyuan, former head of the Chinese Football Association, has pleaded guilty to charges of taking bribes amounting to approximately 81 million yuan. This occurred at a public hearing at the Huangshi Intermediate People's Court in Hubei province. He was accused of misusing his positions to assist certain entities and individuals in return for around 81.03 million yuan in property and money from 2010 to 2023. A documentary series on the fight against corruption broadcasted on China Central Television also depicted Chen admitting to abusing power and taking bribes from clubs. The 67-year-old, who previously worked as Party secretary and president of the Shanghai International Port Group, extended apologies to soccer fans nationwide and was placed under disciplinary review and supervisory investigation in 2023. Several other former soccer officials also faced trial for bribery charges on the same day.