Gambling messages were abundant during the opening weekend of the Premier League, as a report by Sky News revealed that the number of gambling adverts shown nearly tripled compared to the previous season. The influx of gambling advertisement has raised concerns about the influence it may have on viewers, particularly young fans.
According to Sky News, there were a total of 19 gambling adverts shown during the first round of Premier League matches, compared to just seven during the same period last year. This spike in gambling promotion is alarming, considering that the Premier League is one of the most watched sports leagues in the world, with millions of viewers tuning in each week.
The report also highlighted that four out of the 10 Premier League clubs featured in live matches over the weekend had gambling sponsors prominently displayed on their team shirts. This has raised questions about the extent of gambling’s influence on football, and whether these partnerships could potentially lead to gambling-related harm among fans.
One of the concerns raised by experts is the potential impact on vulnerable populations, such as young people who may be more susceptible to the lure of gambling. The normalization of gambling through its association with football could lead to an increase in problem gambling among fans, particularly those who are underage.
In response to the report, a spokesperson for the Premier League stated that they “take their responsibilities around gambling very seriously” and that they work closely with industry partners to ensure that gambling advertising is responsible. However, critics argue that more needs to be done to protect vulnerable fans from the potential harms of excessive gambling promotion.
The issue of gambling in football is not a new one, but the recent surge in advertising during the Premier League’s opening weekend has reignited the debate. With the growing influence of gambling in football, it is becoming increasingly important for clubs and league officials to consider the impact it may have on fans, particularly those who are more susceptible to its allure.
As the Premier League season continues, it remains to be seen how the issue of gambling advertising will be addressed by officials and clubs. However, one thing is clear – the presence of gambling messages during matches is a growing concern that cannot be ignored.