Former soccer officials expressed remorse for their corrupt actions that led to widespread irregularities in the sport. In November 2022, Li Tie, the former head coach of the Chinese national team, was investigated, along with numerous high-ranking and mid-level officials of the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

Li Tie admitted that his appointment as head coach was influenced by his success in promoting two teams to the Chinese Super League through match-fixing. He acknowledged that his desire for quick results and impatience led him to engage in unethical practices, including influencing referees and bribing opponents.

Li's actions highlight the failure of the CFA to fulfill its supervisory role. Chen Xuyuan, the former president of the CFA, admitted to accepting bribes from clubs and turning a blind eye to corruption. He acknowledged that the pervasive corruption in Chinese soccer extended beyond specific individuals or aspects of the sport.

Du Zhaocai, the former deputy director of the General Administration of Sport of China and former Party chief of the CFA, also abused his position for personal gain. He accepted millions of yuan in gifts and money while ignoring irregularities in soccer. Du admitted to failing to prevent corruption and allowing it to become routine.