South Australian football club investigated over alleged match-fixing and betting on own games

Football Australia is investigating South Australian club The Cove FC over allegations of match-fixing and illegal betting involving their own matches during the 2026 season.

According to AdelaideNow and 10 News, the investigation centres on allegations that players manipulated matches and placed bets on games involving the club.

Football Australia has confirmed an ongoing disciplinary process but declined to provide further details while the investigation continues.

Football South Australia has also acknowledged the investigation, confirming it was notified of the matter and that Football Australia has exclusive jurisdiction over the proceedings.

The state governing body said Cove FC - who play in State League 1 - had cooperated with the inquiry and would not comment further until the investigation was finalised.

Cove FC chairman Phil Hole referred questions about the allegations to Football Australia, while South Australia Police declined to comment when approached by AdelaideNow.

Based in Trott Park in Adelaide's southern suburbs, Cove FC were established in 1983 and operate senior, junior and community football programs.

The allegations concern the integrity of matches during the 2026 season, although the specific fixtures under investigation and the number of individuals allegedly involved have not been publicly established in the available reporting.

Under Australian football's betting and match-manipulation rules, prohibited conduct can include deliberately influencing match results or specific incidents within games, as well as breaches of applicable betting restrictions.

Potential sporting sanctions depend on the nature and severity of any proven breaches.

The investigation remains ongoing. No findings of wrongdoing or disciplinary sanctions have been announced in connection with the allegations.