In an unprecedented shake-up within the Chinese xiangqi (Chinese chess) community, the General Administration of Sport of China has announced strict penalties against a total of 41 players, effectively reshaping the landscape of the sport.

At the center of this scandal, known as 'Recording Gate,' are grandmasters Zhao Xinxin, Wang Yang, and Zheng Weitong who have been banned for life and stripped of their titles by the Chinese Xiangqi Association (CXA).

The investigation revealed serious allegations of match-fixing and bribery that allegedly disrupted the sport’s integrity, according to disclosures on Sunday.

The origins of the scandal date back to April 2023, when audio clips purportedly capturing discussions of match-fixing between players Wang Yuefei and Hao Jichao surfaced on online platforms.

This revelation prompted veteran players Liu Dahua and Dang Fei to take to social media in October of the same year, demanding a thorough investigation.

Their outcry set off an extensive investigative process by the CXA, which has now culminated in these sweeping sanctions.

The findings reveal a troubling picture of widespread unethical conduct.

Many involved, including well-known figures such as Zhao, engaged in corrupt practices that included manipulation of match outcomes and bribes that reached across the spectrum of the sport.

Consequently, 34 individuals received suspensions according to the severity of their offenses, while four others were formally reprimanded.

This crackdown extends from earlier actions taken against Wang Tianyi, the long-reigning top national player, who alongside Wang Yuefei, was already banned for life due to similar violations.

Authorities uncovered that these malpractices were not isolated incidents, but rather part of a pervasive issue within the sport, raising questions about the broader implications on xiangqi’s credibility and governance.

The Chinese Xiangqi Association has urged that any further allegations of misconduct will be met with strict disciplinary measures.

As players, coaches, and officials await the final outcomes of ongoing investigations, the Association reassured stakeholders of its commitment to maintaining high ethical standards moving forward.

These developments signal a significant moment for Chinese chess, a sport deeply rooted in the nation's cultural heritage.

As the sport grapples with these revelations, stakeholders within and outside China will be closely observing the measures taken to restore trust and uphold the integrity of this ancient game.