Unlicensed Betters May Lose Sponsorship Spots in UK Sports

The British government is considering a new policy that would ban unlicensed gambling operators from sponsoring football teams. The goal is to curb the influence of illegal betting firms and create a level playing field for companies that comply with UK regulations.

Current Landscape

• Premier League clubs already agreed to remove gambling ads from the front of shirts after this season.
• However, unlicensed operators can still place logos on the sleeves, keeping a visible presence in the top tier of English football.

Proposed Change

• Pressure on clubs to choose only properly regulated sponsors.
• Fans would gain confidence that the betting sites they see on the pitch have undergone safety checks and adhere to fair practices.

Next Steps

• The government will consult with clubs and regulators before finalizing the policy.
• If passed, it could set a precedent for stricter sponsorship rules across other sports.