Everton’s Martin Sherif Hit With FA Betting Charge Over 61 Bets

Everton forward Martin Sherif has been charged by the Football Association after allegedly placing 61 bets on football matches over a 15‑month period.

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The FA confirmed the investigation, stating, “It’s alleged that the player breached FA Rule E1.2 in respect of 61 bets placed on football matches between 20 November 2024 and 12 February 2026. Martin Sherif has until Monday 17 August to provide a response.”

The 20‑year‑old striker was recently informed of the accusations, according to a BBC report. Under FA rules, players, managers, referees, officials and club staff are banned from betting on any football match or competition worldwide. The restrictions also cover wagers on transfers, team selections and managerial appointments.

The FA’s betting policy makes clear, “There is a worldwide ban on betting on football for Participants of Clubs in the Premier League, EFL, National League, WSL, WSL2, National League (North and South), the Isthmian League, the Northern Premier League and the Southern League.” 

“Participants covered by the ban will be prohibited from betting, either directly or indirectly, on any football match or competition that takes place anywhere in the world.”

Premier League betting cases

The Premier League has seen several high‑profile betting investigations in recent years. Lucas Paquetá, formerly of West Ham United, was cleared last summer after a two‑year probe into claims he deliberately picked up yellow cards to benefit gamblers.

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An independent commission found no evidence of wrongdoing and dismissed the allegations. The midfielder, who now plays for Brazilian side Flamengo, also considered suing the FA after the allegations were dropped.

Sandro Tonali’s case took a different path. The Tottenham midfielder admitted to placing illegal bets and cooperated fully with authorities.

He served a 10‑month global suspension handed down by the Italian Football Federation in October 2023, alongside a €20,000 fine and mandatory public appearances to raise awareness about gambling risks.

The English FA later imposed a two‑month suspended ban and a £20,000 fine for 50 breaches committed shortly after his move to England. His punishment was reduced thanks to self‑reporting, immediate cooperation, and treatment for gambling addiction.

These cases unfolded as the Premier League entered its first season without gambling sponsors on the front of shirts. The league agreed in 2023 to phase out such deals by 2026/27 under pressure from the U.K. government.

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