Key points:
- Seven gambling operators have received warnings for advertising violations, particularly concerning marketing that could appeal to young adults
- Violations included unauthorised public display of branded vehicles and creative attempts to reference sports celebrities
- The KSA warns that future violations may face immediate enforcement action, with additional advertising guidance forthcoming in 2025
The Dutch Gaming Authority (KSA) has taken action against seven gambling operators for breaching advertising regulations, with a particular focus on protecting young adults from gambling-related marketing.
The violations span various promotional channels and highlight the regulator's increasing scrutiny of creative advertising tactics.
In two cases, partnerships led to prohibited advertising exposure. One incident involved a sponsored motorsport event where a branded 'pacecar' was visible on public roads outside the event premises, violating rules against untargeted advertising.
Another case concerned inappropriate gambling advertisements in a youth-focused gymnasium via digital displays.
The regulator also addressed violations of the role model ban, with one online gambling provider using cartoon figures and an actor in their advertising, which the KSA deemed appealing to younger audiences.
Four additional warnings were issued to operators who attempted to circumvent regulations by making indirect references to Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen through wordplay and visual elements in their sports betting promotions.
The actions align with the KSA’s recently published Supervisory Agenda 2025, which emphasises stricter enforcement of advertising rules.
The authority has warned that repeat violations following initial warnings may result in more severe sanctions, and deliberate attempts to test regulatory boundaries will face immediate enforcement action.
The KSA has also reminded operators that they bear full responsibility for their advertising content, regardless of whether it is created internally or through external partners.
The authority plans to provide additional guidance on advertising regulations later this year.
