Jurgen Pisani Successfully Appeals 15-Month Prison Term in Match-Fixing Case

The Court of Criminal Appeal has overturned footballer Jurgen Pisani’s 15-month prison sentence and 10-year sports ban, clearing him of all match-fixing charges linked to a Malta Premier League fixture played in May 2024.

Judge Neville Camilleri ruled that the original conviction was not legally or reasonably supported by the evidence presented, concluding that the prosecution had failed to prove the allegations beyond reasonable doubt.

The case centred on a crucial match between Santa Luċija and Birkirkara on 3 May 2024. Santa Luċija, captained by Pisani at the time, needed a win to avoid relegation, while Birkirkara had already secured European qualification. The match ended in a 2–2 draw.

Prosecutors alleged that Pisani offered Birkirkara striker Maxuell Maia €2,000 not to score during the game. Maia testified that Pisani repeatedly approached him during the match and asked him to accept the offer. Pisani consistently denied the allegations and presented match footage in his defence.

In its judgment, the Court of Appeal questioned key aspects of the prosecution’s case, including deleted WhatsApp messages between Pisani and teammate Steve Pisani. The court accepted Pisani’s explanation that the chats were deleted to conceal plans for a visit to a gentleman’s club from his wife, noting that no forensic evidence was presented to establish when the messages had been erased.

The court also highlighted concerns regarding witness testimony and the absence of official match footage. As a result, Pisani was acquitted of all charges and both penalties were nullified.

#MaltaDaily