Match-fixers in Russia could face seven years in jail under new legislation submitted to parliament by President Vladimir Putin.

The new law bans officials and players from betting on sports events they are participating in. Offenders also face fines of up to one million roubles ($33,000), according to documents in parliament’s database made public yesterday.

Widespread match-fixing and corruption are rife in Russian sport, experts say, as the country prepares to host several major events including the 2014 Winter Olympics and soccer’s World Cup in 2018.

However, rarely has anyone been convicted or brought to trial.

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