Authorities probe alleged betting by national waterpolo players
Multiple authorities have opened investigations into Malta’s national water polo team following allegations that players may have bet on their own matches during the European Championships in Belgrade. The police and the Malta Gaming Authority have confirmed they are investigating, joining an ongoing probe by the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport (AIMS), after insiders reportedly came forward. Sources cited by The Times of Malta indicate that around four players are suspected of placing bets on the goal difference in Malta’s opening match against Montenegro, which ended in a 21–12 loss. A subsequent defeat against France is also under scrutiny. Investigators believe the players may have attempted to manipulate outcomes to meet specific betting conditions. The MGA is understood to be contacting gaming companies to analyse any unusual betting patterns linked to the matches. (Times of Malta)
Surge in positive doping tests raises integrity concerns
Malta has seen a “major surge” in positive doping tests in recent weeks, according to the CEO of the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport, Kevin Azzopardi. Speaking in an interview, Azzopardi said the increase underlines the importance of stronger oversight as AIMS continues to establish itself as the national regulator for sporting integrity. Established in 2022, AIMS is responsible for governance, anti-doping measures and combating match-fixing across all sports. Azzopardi said a key priority has been registering all sports organisations, as required by law. To date, 56 national associations have completed registration, with most of the remaining bodies having started the process. Around 320 of Malta’s estimated 400 sports clubs have also initiated registration, with full compliance targeted by mid-2026. (The Malta Independent)
Health policy takes centre stage as parties trade pledges
Healthcare featured prominently in political debate this weekend, with contrasting proposals and claims from government and opposition. Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that preventive HIV medication will be offered free of charge, describing the move as a matter of principle and prevention. He linked the measure to sustained economic growth, questioning whether the opposition could deliver similar commitments. Abela also outlined ongoing and planned investments, including the expansion of Mater Dei’s Emergency Department, a new psychiatric hospital, and an intermediate-care facility for the elderly, aimed at reducing pressure on the central hospital. The Nationalist Party pledged that all cancer and oncology medicines would be made available on the government formulary, with Opposition leader Alex Borg saying families should not have to rely on charity to access treatment. (TVM News)
