What is match-fixing and why does it threaten sport integrity?

• A. A legitimate tactic used to ensure fair outcomes.
• B. A minor form of cheating that has no impact.
• C. Match-fixing is collusion to determine outcomes for financial or other gain, undermining fairness and public trust.
• D. A method to improve stadium attendance.

Answer: (C)

Match-fixing is when players, officials, or others collude to determine the outcome of a game for financial or other gain. This isn’t about competitive strategy or fair play; it’s deception that makes results depend on arrangements rather than actual skill and effort. The main harm is that fairness—the idea that sport outcomes reflect ability—is injured, and public trust suffers because fans, sponsors, and bettors doubt the legitimacy of what they’re watching. It can also distort betting markets and lead to serious penalties, including suspensions, bans, and legal consequences for those involved. The other descriptions miss the point: it isn’t a legitimate tactic to ensure fairness, it isn’t a minor issue with no impact, and it isn’t a method to boost attendance—it's a corrupt practice that undermines the sport’s integrity.