The Chinese Super League season has started, but it’s already facing major problems. Over half of the teams have been penalized points for cheating and other rule violations, promising a very unpredictable season.
Although it doesn’t receive as much notice as football in Europe or South America, Chinese football has experienced a dramatic period of change over the past ten years.
Chinese football has long struggled with corruption and behind-the-scenes problems, but the current situation is unprecedented.
Chinese football teams punished for match-fixing
As the Chinese Super League kicked off its new season on Friday, it’s clear something unusual is happening. Nine out of the sixteen teams began with negative points due to widespread penalties.
The Chinese Super League season begins today, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most unusual in football. Over half of the teams (9 out of 16) are starting with negative points because of past issues with match-fixing.
— The Sweeper (@SweeperPod) March 6, 2026
Six of the seven teams that finished at the top of the league last season have now been penalized points, including the current champions, Shanghai Port, who will start their attempt to defend their title with a five-point deduction.
Tianjin Jinmen Tiger and Shanghai Shenhua, who finished second last season, both received a ten-point penalty as punishment.
Beijing sports commentator Wang Dazhao told Global Times that Shanghai Shenhua, last season’s second-place team, is now unlikely to contend for the championship after receiving a 10-point penalty. Wang believes this penalty, while surprising, might be a good thing for the league, which had become somewhat predictable.
Penalties have been issued for past wrongdoings involving manipulating games, betting, and corrupt practices.
In addition to points being taken away from several teams in China’s second-tier league, a total of 73 individuals have received lifetime bans from football. This includes Chen Xuyuan, the former president of the Chinese Football Association, and Li Tie, a former Everton player who also coached the Chinese national team.
A season of chaos ahead for Chinese Super League
Since the two best teams from last season are already behind, this season in China promises to be exciting and likely result in a new champion.
Chengdu Rongcheng, unlike many other teams, avoided a points penalty and kicked off their season with an impressive 5-1 victory over Shenzhen Peng City on Friday. It remains to be seen if they can maintain this form and capitalize on the struggles of their rivals.
Several teams have brought in new managers recently, and there’s been a surge of Australian coaches being appointed to lead positions in the Chinese Super League. Notably, Nick Montgomery, previously with Tottenham Hotspur, and Kevin Muscat, a Wolves legend, are among those taking on these roles.
The league will continue playing games throughout the summer World Cup. This upcoming year promises to be exciting with new players, updated rules, and increased scrutiny of each team, all adding up to a captivating season.
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2026-03-06 18:49