Premier League clubs could reportedly exploit a ‘government loophole’ after a ban on gambling shirt sponsors was announced.
On Thursday afternoon, the Premier League confirmed that clubs will no longer be able to have gambling companies as their main shirt sponsors.
Their statement said: “The announcement follows an extensive consultation involving the League, its clubs and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport as part of the Government’s ongoing review of current gambling legislation.
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“The Premier League is also working with other sports on the development of a new code for responsible gambling sponsorship.
“To assist clubs with their transition away from shirt-front gambling sponsorship, the collective agreement will begin at the end of the 2025/26 season.”
According to the Express, clubs could still use gambling companies as a source of financial income due to what has been described as a government loophole.
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It has been reported that the proposal approved by the Premier League’s shareholders will include ‘a compromise’ which will allow clubs to have gambling companies as sleeve sponsors.
The report claims it as a loophole to avoid government legislation that thought about a blanket ban on all gambling advertisements.
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Since the announcement, the Premier League have been urged to enforce a wider ban.
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The Big Step campaign’s founder, James Grimes said: “Today’s announcement is a significant acceptance of the harm caused by gambling sponsorship. No gambling ads are seen more than those on Premier League shirts, worn by billions around the world.
“But just moving logos to a different part of the kit while allowing pitch-side advertising and league sponsorship to continue is totally incoherent. Without government action on all forms of gambling ads in football, at every level, online casinos will exploit any voluntary measures and continue to market their products through our national sport.”
Currently, eight Premier League teams have gambling firms as their main shirt sponsors.
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West Ham’s long-term agreement with Betway is believed to be the biggest deal, with the Hammers getting a reported £10 million per year.
SPORTbible has contacted the Premier League for comment.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Premier League, Football