Dutch online gambling firms face class action lawsuits
The Dutch Supreme Court is expected to issue a final decision on the case early next year, which could have far-reaching implications for the Netherlands' online gambling industry.
Online gambling companies are facing class action lawsuits from players seeking to recover losses incurred before the legalisation of online gambling in the Netherlands.
This legal action follows a landmark ruling in April, where a Dutch court ordered two unlicensed online gambling companies to reimburse two players who had lost approximately €200,000 ($224,000) each. Lawyer Benzi Loonstein described the ruling as “groundbreaking.”
Two groups are now spearheading new mass claims against online gambling firms. The foundation Gokverliesterug is demanding that companies repay losses incurred by Dutch consumers before October 2021, when online gambling was legalised in the country.
Lawyer Koen Rutten, representing Gokverliesterug, stated: “Many foreign online casinos ignored Dutch rules for years, assuming they would not get caught. They have to be held to account for that period, even though they now have licences.”
A second mass claim, led by Loonstein Advocaten, has reportedly attracted over 20,000 participants.
Before October 2021, online gambling was prohibited in the Netherlands, though many international companies – including Unibet, Bwin and Pokerstars – continued to operate in the country.
In the wake of the recent legalisation, there are now 27 companies with 37 different brands that are licensed to operate in the Dutch market – a number that is growing every year.
Just recently, for example, it was announced that Hard Rock Casino NL had partnered with BetComply to secure a Dutch licence.
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