The change was confirmed on September 14, 2026, through an update to Google’s country-specific ad policy for Croatia, with all existing online gambling ads set to be revoked on the scheduled deadline. Additionally, Google will stop accepting new applications from gambling advertisers.
Google explained:
“On October 7, 2026, Google Ads will update the country-specific information for Croatia in the Gambling and Gaming policy. Under the updated policy, all promotion of content related to online gambling and targeting Croatia will be prohibited effective October 7, 2026. All existing certifications for advertisers of content promoting online gambling will be revoked, and applications for these certifications will no longer be accepted.”
The update comes after Croatia’s government introduced tough new gambling ad rules at the beginning of 2026, including a watershed ban on ads on TV, radio, and online platforms from 6 am to 11 pm. The country further added prohibitions on celebrity endorsements and influencer promotions of gambling; however, Google explained that its own policy change was made independently of the mentioned government restrictions.
At the same time, gambling sponsorships are still permitted in Croatia, but limited to only displaying the company’s logo, name, and trademark, without promotions or appeals.
