KSA warns BetMGM for use of Lamine Yamal in ad campaign
The underage role model was briefly used in online advertisements for the casino.
Key points:
– Lamine Yamal was briefly used in an advertisement campaign for BetMGM
– After being notified that this could go against gambling laws, BetMGM removed the ad but did not inform regulators of the mistake
The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch Gambling Authority, has filed a warning against BetMGM after the operator used FC Barcelona winger, Lamine Yamal, in its advertisements despite him being 17.
According to the law in the Netherlands, operators are not allowed to include role models in gambling advertisements, especially those who might appeal to children, such as football players.
The advertising campaign was created and published by the editors of the website.
A media company affiliated with BetMGM noticed the advert, reported it to BetMGM, but the operator did not let the KSA know despite being obliged to inform the regulator about any mistakes that may have happened.
However, the KSA has dismissed the violation and left the operator with only a warning, as “BetMGM quickly ended the violation and took adequate measures to prevent a recurrence.”
Good to know: Lamine Yamal has been representing Spain internationally in the senior team since he was 16, before appearing in the UEFA European Championship final at age 17
This infraction comes at a delicate time for those caught in the overlap between sports and gambling, as the Netherlands is winding down its two-year transitional period to end sports sponsorships in the country.
The ban will be live on 1 July 2025 and the KSA has been open in the fact that it will be vigilant during this time, and will not hesitate to take immediate action against any violations.
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