Chen Xuyuan, former chairman of the Chinese Football Association, was sentenced to life imprisonment in the first instance. Court found that from 2010 to 2023, he took advantage of his position as president and chairman of Shanghai International Port (Group) Co., Ltd.
He sought improper benefits for multiple football clubs and local football associations in matters such as event arrangements, league promotions, referee penalties, etc. In the final statement of the trial, he bowed at 90° for nearly 10 seconds and apologized to the fans.