In April, Gambling Insider covered the story as news broke that the Sweden and AC Milan footballer could reportedly face a three-year ban from football.
Ibrahimovic owns a Swedish company called Unknown AB, which previously held 10% of the shares in operator Bethard. Ibrahimovic has been the brand’s ambassador and co-owner since 2018.
However, earlier today, it was announced that Esports Entertainment Group will acquire Bethard. As part of the agreement, Esports Entertainment will pay $19.5m in cash and 12% of its net gaming revenue share for the next two years.
It is unclear what exactly happened to Ibrahimovic’s stake but one would assume that was also purchased by Bethard’s new buyer.
A UEFA statement said: “The Chairman of the UEFA Appeals Body today took the following decisions:
“To fine Mr. Zlatan Ibrahimović €50,000 for violating Article 12(2)(b) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR), i.e. for having a financial interest in a betting company.
“The Chairman of the UEFA Appeals Body also issued Mr. Ibrahimovic with a directive aimed at ceasing the player’s association with the relevant betting company.
“Finally, the Chairman of the UEFA Appeals Body decided to warn and fine AC Milan €25,000 for violating Article 12(2)(b) of the UEFA DR (in connection with Article 8 of the UEFA DR) for its player, Mr. Zlatan Ibrahimović, having a financial interest in a betting company.”
Ultimately, however, Ibrahimovic appears to have gotten off lightly given he was said to be facing a total footballing ban.
