The betting black market is projected to handle £1bn in illegal Premier League bets within a year, according to new analysis. This warning comes as the Premier League season kicks off tonight, with all 20 clubs having voluntarily banned gambling and casino brands from their front-of-shirt sponsorship slots.
While gambling brands are no longer on the front of shirts, many have moved to sleeves and training kits. However, there are concerns that changes to gambling duty, including a hike from April, could push fans towards the unregulated black market due to attractive promotional materials. Wagers made in this market are often not secure, and promised funds may not be returned.
Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, stated that while millions of fans will bet safely with regulated operators, the criminal black market is also looking to profit. She highlighted that these illegal operators pay no tax, fund nothing, and offer none of the consumer protections found in the regulated sector, undermining player safety and tax revenue.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has faced criticism from some in the betting industry for linking "betting shops" with "dodgy businesses" in a social media post discussing a crackdown on rogue operators. An industry source suggested that tackling illegal operators, who are reportedly linked to organised crime and benefit from Labour's tax hikes, should be a priority.