Government Proposes Ban on Unlicensed Gambling Sponsorships
The UK government has announced plans to ban unlicensed casinos from sponsoring sports teams, a move that could impact Premier League clubs such as Everton FC and sports like Formula One. The proposal, confirmed on Wednesday, aims to protect vulnerable individuals and reduce money laundering risks associated with organized crime groups.
Consultation and Timeline
An eight-week consultation has been launched, with the ban potentially taking effect as early as August 2027. The restrictions would cover logos on kits, stadium infrastructure, and pitch-side hoardings. The government stated the ban would be enforced no later than August 2028.
Impact on Everton FC
Everton FC has a sleeve sponsorship deal with Stake.com, a crypto casino without a UK Gambling Commission licence, worth at least £10 million. The agreement, signed in June, runs until the 2028-29 season. Despite a government warning in February about a potential crackdown, Everton pursued the deal. The club now faces losing at least one year of the contract if the ban is implemented by 2027.
Other Affected Clubs and Sports
Premier League clubs Chelsea and Ipswich Town (both sponsored by 8Xbet) and Fulham (SBOTOP) also have partnerships with unlicensed gambling firms. Multiple lower-league clubs have similar deals. In Formula One, Stake.com previously sponsored the Sauber team, and future deals could require removing decals for the British Grand Prix. The World Snooker Tour is sponsored by Sportsbet.io, another unlicensed operator.
Legal Context and Enforcement
Current rules allow sports teams to accept sponsorship from unlicensed gambling companies as long as they do not accept bets from UK consumers. However, the government is concerned that UK residents access these sites via virtual private networks, attracted by football advertising. Under the new proposals, such commercial deals would become a criminal offence. The ban does not cover online partnerships, which would require separate legislation.
Gambling minister Fiona Twycross said: "We believe that, although most sectors and sports will be unaffected, some sports or clubs will be impacted."
Separate Voluntary Measures
The proposed ban is separate from the Premier League's voluntary decision to stop advertising gambling on the front of match-day kits from the 2026-27 season.
There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by any of the betting companies named. The Guardian has contacted all affected parties for comment.
