FK Arsenal 10-Year Ban from European Competitions

FK Arsenal Tivat, a Montenegrin football club, has been handed a 10-year ban from European competitions by UEFA. The ban was a result of the club’s involvement in match-fixing during a UEFA Europa Conference League qualifying match against Armenian side Alashkert in July 2023. The ban will last until the end of the 2034-35 season, and the club has also been fined €500,000 (£433,000).

In addition to the club’s punishment, several individuals associated with FK Arsenal Tivat have also received severe penalties. Nikola Celebic, a midfielder, and Ranko Krgovic, a club official, have been banned for life from all football-related activities. Cetko Manojlovic, Dusan Puletic, and Radule Zivkovic, all players, have been banned for 10 years.

The global implications of this ban are significant. UEFA has requested that FIFA extend the bans globally, preventing the individuals from participating in football activities worldwide. This means that the banned individuals will not be able to play or participate in any football-related activities in any country, not just in Europe.

It’s important to note that FK Arsenal Tivat is a separate entity from the well-known English football club Arsenal FC, which currently competes in the Premier League and European League competitions. The ban imposed on FK Arsenal Tivat does not affect Arsenal FC’s participation in European competitions.

In conclusion, the 10-year ban from European competitions imposed on FK Arsenal Tivat serves as a stern warning to other football clubs and individuals involved in match-fixing. It highlights the importance of fair play and integrity in the sport.