UEFA has banned Czech club MFK Karviná from European competitions next season due to their involvement in a domestic match-fixing scandal, the governing body announced on Thursday, July 2, 2026.
Background of the Scandal
Karviná, who won the Czech Cup, were already expelled from the top division by the Czech Football Association on June 16. The association's ethics committee also fined the club 10 million Czech koruna ($480,000) for offering bribes to two referees and two players to influence a league match and two relegation playoff games involving the club in 2024. The club did not appeal the sanctions.
Impact on European Qualification
By winning the Czech Cup, Karviná had advanced directly to the fourth qualifying round for the Europa League next season. However, UEFA confirmed that another Czech club, FC Viktoria Plzeň, will take their place. If Plzeň lose the qualifying game, they will instead receive a berth in the third-tier Conference League.
Wider Investigation
In March, the Czech Football Association stated that a total of 47 individuals and teams, including referees, officials, players, former players, and clubs from the top four leagues, were facing a disciplinary investigation for their alleged involvement in the match-fixing scandal. This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption in Czech football.
