The former chairman of Shanghai Port FC, Chen Xuyuan, has been sentenced to life in prison for bribery, marking a significant case in the corruption issues within Chinese football. According to China Central Television, Chen accepted bribes worth CNY 81 million (approximately USD 11 million) during his tenure as the head of the Chinese Football Association and chairman of Shanghai International Port Group. He took advantage of his position to accept nearly 220 bribes for assistance with project contracts, investments, and event management. The court has seized the illegal funds and stripped Chen of his personal property. In recent years, China has cracked down on corruption in sports, leading to the downfall of several officials and players. Chen served as the chairman of the CFA from August 2019 until February 2023. Under his leadership, Shanghai Port FC acquired Shanghai East Asia Football Club in 2014 and rebranded it to Shanghai Port FC, helping the team win its first Chinese Football Association Super League championship in 2018. This bribery case not only impacts the reputation of Shanghai Port FC but also raises public concern about the management of Chinese football.