Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has announced stricter monitoring of gambling advertising and betting products ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, warning operators that violations will trigger immediate enforcement action.
The KSA reminded all licensed operators of the existing regulations on non-targeted gambling advertising and sponsoring sports events, while also reminding them about the ongoing prohibition of certain micro-betting markets, under Dutch law.
The KSA’s primary focus during this time period is to protect those vulnerable (young adults) who are likely to be impacted by an increase of betting activity caused by the increase of activity associated with major international football events.
According to Michel Groothuizen, licensed operators should be cognizant of their responsibilities to promote responsible gambling practices while taking advantage of the commercial opportunities created by the World Cup.
Groothuizen also pointed out that gambling activity had dramatically increased during the 2022 World Cup and 2024 European Championships, so the World Cup is a good time for licensed operators to engage in customer acquisition campaigns.
The KSA also reiterated their commitment to increasing their enforcement efforts against unlicensed operators and affiliates that promote illegal gambling services.
The renewed warnings from the KSA come as the current Dutch coalition government is considering a complete ban on all forms of sports advertising in conjunction with their plan to reform the gambling industry.
Outside of Europe, the Indonesian authorities have issued similar warnings to the general public in advance of the World Cup regarding illegal sports betting, due to concerns regarding the continued expansion of illegal online gambling operations within Indonesia.
