Premier League Clubs Warned Over Sponsorship with Unlicensed Betting Sites - (2026)

Updated: 23/02/2026

Four Premier League clubs have recently come under scrutiny as the Gambling Commission issued a stern warning regarding their sponsorship deals with unlicensed betting websites. This move aims to safeguard fans and consumers from potential harm or exploitation resulting from exposure to advertisements of these unlicensed sites through the clubs' sponsorship arrangements. John Pierce, the Head of Enforcement at the Gambling Commission, emphasized the importance of upholding regulations and conducting checks to ensure compliance.

Pierce highlighted that the commission has initiated contact with several football clubs to underscore the repercussions of unlicensed entities withdrawing from the market. In response to this development, the Gambling Commission affirmed its commitment to conducting unannounced checks to verify the continued blocking of these sites, preventing their access to consumers in Great Britain. The enforcement agency will engage in ongoing spot checks as needed to ensure strict compliance with regulatory measures.

The essence of the message conveyed by Pierce signifies the pivotal role that football clubs play in fortifying the protection of fans and consumers against potential risks associated with unlicensed betting websites. The warning serves as a call to action for all licensed operators, emphasizing the need to adhere to established guidelines and regulations to foster a safer betting environment for all involved.

In the ever-evolving landscape of sports sponsorship and betting relationships, the Gambling Commission's intervention sheds light on the critical need for vigilance and compliance to safeguard the interests of stakeholders and prevent potential harm resulting from unregulated activities.

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