Unveiling the secrets of Starlizard: Tony Bloom’s data powerhouse in football integrity
Starlizard, often described as the Willy Wonka’s factory for sports data, has been instrumental in the success of Brighton & Hove Albion and Belgium’s Union Saint Gilloise.
In a rare interview, Affy Sheikh, Head of Starlizard Integrity Services, reveals how the company uses its vast data resources to combat match-fixing and support law enforcement efforts. Despite its enigmatic nature, Starlizard’s commitment to clean data is central to both its business model and its contribution to football integrity.
1: How does Starlizard contribute to combating match-fixing in football?
Starlizard uses its extensive data analysis capabilities to identify suspicious betting patterns and player performances, which it then shares with sports governing bodies and law enforcement agencies. Although the company itself lacks the authority to directly investigate players, it provides crucial intelligence that helps these bodies pursue and prosecute match-fixing cases.
2: What role does education play in preventing match-fixing according to Affy Sheikh?
Sheikh emphasizes the importance of educating players about the methods used by match-fixers. Clubs have a duty to protect their players by informing them about potential approaches and techniques used by fixers, such as building relationships under false pretenses.
3: How significant is match-fixing in the global football landscape?
According to Starlizard’s 2023 integrity report, match-fixing is relatively rare, with only one in 400 matches showing indicators of possible manipulation globally. However, the risk is higher in regions like Asia and in lower domestic leagues.
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Director of Event Strategy at High Lantern Group
8moI love that the chiefs won….even tough, your heart is two sizes too small, like the grinch, for joe burrow.