Illegal Premier League betting could hit £1bn within year

The betting black market could generate £1 billion in illegal Premier League bets within the next year, according to recent analysis. As the football season kicks off, the Premier League clubs have voluntarily removed gambling and casino brand logos from their front-of-shirt sponsorship deals. Gambling companies, although not all UK-regulated, have shifted their focus to other areas of the shirt, such as sleeves and training kits, though concerns persist about the potential for fans to turn to unregulated black market betting due to enticing promotional materials.

One of the factors contributing to the allure of illegal betting is the recent hike in gambling duty, set to take effect in April, which has raised concerns among some in the industry. Former Chancellor Rachel Reeves had implemented this tax increase, despite concerns about its impact on sports. Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, stated that while millions of football fans will safely bet with licensed operators throughout the season, the criminal black market is also capitalizing on the situation.

These illegal operators do not pay taxes, provide no protection for consumers, and are answerable to no one.

The Premier League has made significant changes to its gambling sponsorship, with gambling brands replaced by technology, web, and financial firms. Aston Villa has signed Visit Rwanda, while Newcastle United has partnered with Knox Hydration. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has faced criticism from some within the betting industry, who question the effectiveness of his crackdown on rogue operators.

One industry source suggested that if Burnham truly wanted to tackle illegal operators, he would focus more on that aspect rather than targeting lawful businesses.

Hurst emphasized that licensed operators are subject to strict rules regarding consumer protection, safer gambling, and financial safeguards. Illegal black market operators, on the other hand, undermine player protections, avoid taxes, disregard safer gambling standards, and pose serious risks to consumers. With illegal betting on the Premier League expected to reach £1 billion annually, Hurst supports actions to protect fans, uphold standards, and ensure customer safety within the regulated market.