Setting up a consultation
The UK government has revealed plans to block unlicensed gambling companies from sponsoring sports teams. Ministers have concerns about the dangers posed by the black market, including weak consumer protections and links to organized crime. The government is launching a consultation on the issue in the spring.
especially impactful in the English Premier League (EPL)
The proposal would prevent all gambling operators without a UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licence from sponsoring teams. This is especially impactful in the English Premier League (EPL), where several operators fall under this category.
Several clubs received warnings from the UKGC last year over their agreements with the unlicensed TGP Europe. Bournemouth, Wolves, Newcastle, Fulham, and Burnley all had relationships with TGP Europe white-label platforms.
Backed by the regulated industry
The government’s statement on Monday emphasized that clubs aren’t currently doing anything wrong if partnering with firms that don’t have a local license, as long as they don’t accept UK customers.
However, ministers believe a total ban is necessary to stop the visibility these unlicensed brands are getting from a UK audience. The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) industry body welcomed the news on Monday:
A ban on gambling companies appearing on the front of EPL jerseys is coming into effect from the start of next season. However, operators can still showcase their logos on sleeves and in other types of activations.
Efforts to tackle black market exposure
The work is part of a wider UK government initiative to tackle gambling-related issues. One of the most recent iterations of this approach was the creation in January of an Illegal Gambling Taskforce. It includes members from law enforcement, companies like Google, Visa, and TikTok, as well as gambling bodies.
Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross is leading the taskforce. It is focusing on stopping illegal operators from advertising through social media, stopping payments to unlicensed platforms, and improving collaboration.
