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A recent survey conducted by the Football Supporters Association reveals that three-quarters of football fans are concerned about the prevalence of gambling advertising and sponsorship around the sport.
Additionally, new research from GambleAware highlights that two in three members of the public feel there is an excessive amount of gambling advertising in media more generally.
The data indicates that gambling advertising is significantly more likely to influence those already experiencing gambling harm, with affected individuals 40 times more likely to spend additional money and time on gambling due to exposure to such ads.
This suggests that the high volume of gambling advertisements during football tournaments could worsen gambling-related issues among vulnerable individuals.
As such, GambleAware is advocating for stricter regulations on gambling advertising. The organisation proposes measures such as banning gambling marketing at sports events and including health warnings on all gambling advertisements.
Zoë Osmond, Chief Executive of GambleAware, stated: “Millions of people across the country have been coming together this summer, excited to watch the Euros. However, our research shows that most of them feel there is too much gambling advertising in the media and around football.
“Exposure to gambling advertising normalises gambling, and makes it seem like just ‘harmless fun’ without showing the risks of gambling addiction and harm. This is why we have published our new report, to call on the next government to do more to regulate gambling advertising, particularly around sport where children and young people can see it.”
David Rose, Deputy Chief Executive of the Football Supporters Association, added: “Our survey data shows a large majority of fans are concerned about the prevalence of gambling advertising around football, whether that’s shirt sponsors, pitchside hoardings or on TV coverage.
“Our partnership with GambleAware helps us to highlight those concerns, and allows us to show supporters where they can get help if they feel like their gambling has become a problem.”
