The Kansspelautoriteit, the Dutch gambling regulator, has published new guidance on duty of care measures by online gambling license holders and has shared two new studies.
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KSA to Enforce Full Ban on Sports Gambling Sponsorships
The Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) confirms stricter oversight as the Netherlands’ gambling sponsorship ban in sports enters its final phase, with full enforcement beginning 1 July 2025.
In a formal letter to all licensed online gambling providers, the KSA confirmed that the grace period for existing sports sponsorships, introduced in July 2023, will soon expire. From July 1st, gambling operators will be banned from sponsoring individual athletes, teams, stadiums, and competitions, and from distributing gambling-branded merchandise or promotional giveaways linked to sports.
The new rules are part of the Dutch government’s broader campaign to limit public exposure to gambling and protect vulnerable groups, particularly youth. Earlier phases of the legislation prohibited untargeted gambling ads in public spaces, on TV, and on the radio.
KSA chairman Michel Groothuizen warned that the regulator would closely monitor compliance and take immediate enforcement action against violations. He emphasized that operators attempting to circumvent the ban through indirect means, such as surrogate advertising, would face penalties.
The KSA also confirmed it is in active consultation with industry associations to clarify the scope of the ban and ensure a smooth transition for licensed operators. With stricter rules now in place, companies are expected to overhaul their marketing strategies or risk fines or even licence suspension, as the regulator asserts its oversight.
The Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) has issued a record fine of €24.8 million to illegal gambling operator Novatech, which operates the Qbet and 55Bet brands.In...
