Belgium Enforces Temporary Ban on Gambling Advertising

According to Casino Nieuws, all legal efforts taken by Belgian sports leagues and gambling businesses against the previously approved local government ban on advertising gambling activities have been rejected.

Reports suggest that lawsuits were filed in 11 different judicial courts, but they lacked sufficient grounds for the court to grant the plaintiffs’ request. As a result, starting from July 1st, the advertising of gambling activities will be prohibited in Belgium. However, it is worth noting that this ban is only temporary.

From the beginning of the following month, certain gambling promotions will be prohibited nationwide. They include posters in public places, advertisements in magazines, newspapers, television, websites, and social media platforms.

Furthermore, as of January 1st, 2025, gambling advertising will be banned in Belgian stadiums, and additional restrictions will be introduced. Fortunately, there is an exception for sponsorships on football jerseys; advertising will be allowed until January 1st, 2028. This means that starting in 2028, Belgium will completely refrain from gambling advertising. However, there is still a slight exception, as betting promotions will still be available in amateur sports.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the gambling governing bodies in Belgium have raised the age restriction for bettors from 18 to 21 years.