Atletico outlaw bribes, betting and racism...

Atlético MadridLaLiga initiative kick-starts ethical code

The only way is ethics for Atletico Madrid, who have launched a new code of conduct as part of a LaLiga initiative to implement crime prevention models in every club.

However the Rojiblancos know they cannot face the challenge alone which is why they are asking all employees, players, partners, supporters and suppliers to back them.

They will also have a compliance officer to make sure everyone sticks to the code and to monitor the situation or any complaints.

This means any employee can confidentially report breaches, something chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin is keen to see happen.

The code has five points with the first talking about corruption, betting or possible bribes. For example, everyone associated with the club is banned from 'trying to influence business partners through favours, presents or other advantageous offerings anywhere in the world'.

In addition, coaches and players cannot 'participate directly or indirectly in betting relating to football nor take part in or encourage actions which will alter a sports' result'.

Donating to national political or foreign parties is also outlawed.

Football's positive stance to kick out racism is covered in the second point, quoting Article 14 of the Constitution that 'the Spanish are equal in the eyes of the law, there may not be discrimination on the grounds of birth, race, sex, religion, opinion, or any other condition or personal circumstances'.

This code goes on to mention potential discrimination towards staff members by stating managers cannot abuse their position of authority; employees' opinions are personal and do not represent the club; and internet use cannot be banned during breaks but can only be limited 'by the most elementary rules of ethics'.

Also staff members involved in financial and accounting activities at the club must adhere to economic transparency, without any cover-ups or deception.

Lastly, the code bans divulging information or documents, particularly regarding personal data, to a third party.

Now the initiative has been launched, all directors are being urged to take responsibility for implementing and enforcing the new Atletico code.