UK May Ban Unlicensed Casino Sponsors From Sports
Unlicensed gambling companies could be banned from sponsoring sports teams in the UK from August 2027. The government says the move would help protect vulnerable people and reduce the risk of money laundering through sport.
An eight-week consultation has already started. If the proposal is approved, clubs and teams would no longer be allowed to display logos of unlicensed casinos on shirts, stadiums, cars or advertising boards. Breaking the new rules could become a criminal offence.
The biggest impact may be felt by some Premier League clubs. Everton recently signed a three-year sleeve sponsorship deal with Stake.com, reportedly worth at least £10 million. Since Stake does not hold a licence to serve British customers, Everton may have to end the agreement before it expires in 2029.
Gambling minister Fiona Twycross said:
We believe that, although most sectors and sports will be unaffected, some sports or clubs will be impacted.
Chelsea, Ipswich and Fulham also work with gambling brands that are not licensed in Great Britain. Formula One and snooker could face similar problems. For example, Stake.com previously sponsored the Sauber F1 team, while Sportsbet.io sponsors the World Snooker Tour.
The proposal is separate from the Premier League’s voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsors, which starts in the 2026–27 season.
Online partnerships would not be covered for now, as they would require separate legislation. The government, however, said it may consider additional rules later.
