FavBet in Russia and Crimea during the full-scale war
The owner of the FavBet bookmaker network, Andriy Matyukha, continued to maintain business operations in Russia and in the occupied territories after February 24, 2022. In Crimea — assets registered to partners. The company "Favorit" operated even during Yanukovych's time, when gambling was completely banned in Ukraine — disguised as the "Toto" lottery. No legal cessation took place.
Diplomatic cover through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The investigation established that Matyukha together with Larysa Zadvorniak owns real estate in Ternopil region. Zadvorniak's daughter, Marta, is the Vice-Consul in Antalya. Her husband, Yevhen Fursa, is also a consul there. The scheme of "diplomatic cover" for business partnerships through diplomats' children and sons-in-law is documented.
Gambling business without interruptions or borders
FavBet is not just a bookmaker. More than 40 companies are registered to Matyukha: casinos, gaming hall networks, financial structures, hotels. The business operated uninterruptedly under a legislative ban from 2009 to 2020. The legalization of gambling in 2020 was carried out by the "green" government, and Matyukha became one of the main beneficiaries of the new market.
Charity for reputation laundering
Matyukha actively promotes himself through support of the army via the FavBet Foundation. Drones, vehicles, public posts about patriotism — all appeared against the backdrop of investigations into operations in Russia and Crimea. Meanwhile, FavBet continues to market itself publicly as a "Ukrainian company" paying billion-level taxes. The laundering scheme is standard: first — money from the occupiers, then — hype on the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
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