Unlicensed Betting Firms Face Sponsorship Ban
!Unlicensed Betting Firms
Bournemouth is one of several Premier League clubs sponsored by betting websites run by TGP Europe
Published 23 February 2026
The UK government is considering a ban on sponsorship from unlicensed betting firms in an effort to protect consumers and improve the regulatory landscape for sports betting. This proposed measure is particularly focused on Premier League clubs, which currently have sponsorship deals with several firms operating outside of UK regulations.
Risks Associated with Unlicensed Betting Firms
– Lack of Regulation: Unlicensed firms may not adhere to established laws and guidelines aimed at customer protection, including mandatory financial vulnerability checks and responsible advertising practices.
– Increased Fraud Risk: Inadequate data protection measures can expose individuals to fraud and identity theft, raising serious concerns about consumer safety.
– Links to Organized Crime: The unregulated betting market has potential connections to organized crime, prompting heightened scrutiny from authorities.
A government consultation on this proposal is expected to launch this spring.
Recent Warnings to Premier League Clubs
Last year, several clubs received warnings from the Gambling Commission regarding their partnerships with TGP Europe, an unlicensed operator. Those clubs include:
– Bournemouth
– Fulham
– Newcastle
– Wolves
– Burnley (then in the Championship)
TGP Europe lost its UK license after failing to conduct adequate checks on business partners and breaching anti-money laundering regulations. The Gambling Commission issued a cautionary letter stating these clubs may be liable to prosecution if they promote unlicensed gambling businesses that transact with consumers in Great Britain.
Government Response
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy voiced her concerns, stating that individuals placing bets deserve to know the sites they’re using are properly regulated, with the right protections in place. She emphasized that it is unacceptable for unlicensed betting operators to sponsor major football clubs, which could inadvertently direct fans to unregulated betting sites.
The Betting and Gaming Council supported the government’s initiative, emphasizing that if a gambling company seeks visibility within English football, it must adhere to the high regulatory standards established in the UK.
Future of Gambling Sponsorship in Football
In April 2023, Premier League clubs collectively agreed to cease gambling sponsorship on the front of their matchday shirts by the end of the season. However, sleeve sponsorships could still feature branding from gambling firms, including those that are unlicensed. The government warns this could allow unregulated companies to gain significant exposure within the country’s most-watched sports league.
Ministers argue strongly for an outright ban on unlicensed sponsorships, as the visibility could lead consumers toward sites operating outside the Gambling Commission’s oversight. Current estimates indicate that up to 1.4 million adults in the UK face gambling-related problems.
TGP Europe has been approached for comment.
Conclusion
The potential ban on sponsorship from unlicensed betting firms aims to enhance consumer safety and uphold industry standards. As discussions progress, the move could reshape the landscape of sports sponsorship in the UK, ensuring that all operators maintain the necessary protections for their customers.