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Sponsor Spotlight: Motorsports, racing, and baseball

24 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Sports sponsorship activity in the global betting and gaming industry never stops. Just this week alone, several major new deals have been announced that will reach millions of sports fans across the world. This edition of Sponsor Spotlight takes a closer look at Polymarket’s latest breakthrough in Europe, heads to the races with Betway and CopyBet, follows SOFTSWISS as it speeds ahead, and covers the game-changing home run partnership from Caesars. S.S. Lazio teams up with Polymarket Following Polymarket’s recent partnership with the North American business arm of LALIGA, we predicted that the path to Europe for prediction market platforms could be more open than it initially looked. This latest deal has now confirmed that prediction. Italian football giant S.S. Lazio will feature the Polymarket logo on the front of its match kits, and the arrangement will run for the next two years. This move highlights the extremely complex regulatory landscape of the prediction market sector. Italy bans gambling sponsorship in sports, so Polymarket has been named the club’s official fan intelligence and digital insight partner – a strategy that could prove very valuable for its future expansion across Europe. Betway steps into mainline jockey role UK horse racing has seen better days. Recent years have been marked by fluctuating audience numbers, ongoing campaigns against tax increases, and multiple operators pulling their sponsorship support. However, a revival may now be on the horizon, with Betway as the latest operator stepping in to support the sport. The online sportsbook just announced it will sponsor 16 total races across Newmarket, Haydock Park and Market Rasen. Even more importantly, the Super Group-owned brand will serve as the main partner of The Jockey Club for the full 2026 racing season. Could this be a sign that the tide is turning for the better for UK horse racing? CopyBet gallops into new racetrack partnership Offering another much-needed lifeline to horse racing, CopyBet has joined the space as the official partner of Worcester Racecourse for this year’s National Hunt summer season. Already a prominent supporter of this beloved British sport, this new partnership builds on CopyBet’s existing commercial footprint, which already includes racing sponsorship deals across Carlisle, Exeter, Haydock, Huntington, and Kempton. Judging by the company’s growing racing sponsorship portfolio, it is safe to say CopyBet is here to stay, at least for now. Are bookmakers already returning to racing? Betway and CopyBet pen fresh sponsorships SOFTSWISS keeps renowned driver at the wheel Online gaming technology firm SOFTSWISS has announced the extension of its contract with Brazilian F1 legend Rubens Barrichello, who will continue serving as the company’s Non-Executive Director for Latin America for a third consecutive year. A multiple Grand Prix winner, Barrichello is no stranger to high speeds and sharp turns – metaphors that fit perfectly with the fast-paced iGaming industry, both when it comes to innovation and regulatory change. This comparison rings especially true for Barrichello’s home market of Brazil, where the regulatory landscape for the gambling sector seems to shift dramatically every few days. SOFTSWISS gears up for another year with F1 legend Caesars hits home run with MLB Caesars Entertainment has secured the highly-coveted imagery rights for the entire roster of Major League Baseball (MLB) players, in a deal brokered through the commercial arm of MLB Players Inc. As a result, both Caesars Sportsbook and the US branch of William Hill are now the official sportsbook partners of MLB Players across all their online and retail operations. This means both platforms can integrate MLB player imagery into their gaming offerings for the entirety of the 2026 MLB season, allowing them to connect with a domestic US MLB fanbase that totals more than 170 million people. MLBPA signs new licensing deal with Caesars Entertainment Spotlight rankings: Which deals stand out? Betway/The Jockey ClubFor this edition’s rankings, we’ve ordered our list based on broader political and regulatory context. Under this framework, the policy debates surrounding UK horse racing are not only closest to home for the SBC News team, but have also been the most dynamic in recent times.That’s why we’ve placed our horse racing deals at the top of our selection today, leading with Betway – an order that holds no particular significance outside of alphabetical sorting. CopyBet/Worcester RacecourseAs promised, CopyBet comes next on our list. As we noted earlier, the regulatory landscape for UK horse racing has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the past few months, a reality regular SBC News readers are already very familiar with. S.S. Lazio/PolymarketContinuing the theme of regulatory tension, most of Europe has taken a hostile stance against prediction markets and what they claim to represent. Regulators argue that these platforms count as gambling, while platforms like Polymarket claim they are a completely separate service – as seen in its role as digital insight partner for S.S. Lazio.Will challenging Europe’s status quo in this direct way prove a successful strategy to change long-held perceptions of prediction markets? Only time will tell, but the fact remains: cracks in existing barriers have already started to show. SOFTSWISS/Rubens BarrichelloAs the next entry in our selection, this deal is no less tied up in shifting political and regulatory change than any other on our list. Barrichello may have swapped the steering wheel of an F1 car for a tablet, but he still navigates constant change much like he did on the track, as he works to stay up to date on the new gambling policies coming out of Brazil’s Parliament on a daily basis. Caesars/MLBLast but not least on our list is the partnership between Caesars and MLB. While it is less tied up in active political and regulatory debate, this partnership still earned its spot on our list thanks to the outsized importance MLB holds for the US sports industry. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Bet365 lands French licence for World Cup debut

24 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Jake Pollard Jake Pollard reports that the UK giant’s entry is poised to stimulate marketing and heighten competition within the mature French sector… just in time for the World Cup. Bet365 is set to launch in France imminently, following the receipt of its online sports betting license. The approval was granted after a scheduled session by the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) last Thursday, with the official announcement following yesterday morning. The news of Bet365’s expansion into France was first reported by SBC-Gaming&Co last October, with the UK operator filing its license application through its subsidiary, Hillside (New Media Malta) Plc, in January. This development allows Bet365 to begin marketing to French consumers ahead of the World Cup, meeting the internal deadline the company had set for its 2026 launch. Its entry represents a significant shift for the French online sports betting (OSB) industry, as it marks the first time in years that a new operator with the financial resources and brand equity to challenge established leaders like Betclic, Winamax, and Unibet has entered the market. Furthermore, with PMU introducing its new PMU Play app—which emphasizes converting horse racing bettors into sports punters—competition in this sector is expected to intensify. Although OSB is not PMU’s primary focus, the company informed G&Co that it intends to make online poker and sports betting central components of its digital strategy. Previously, Bet365 had opted against entering the French market. However, as the group has grown across Europe, Australia, and more recently the US, France has increasingly become a strategic priority. As SBC-G&Co noted in October, the firm’s “financial firepower provides it with the luxury of time to promote its offerings and absorb initial losses, a strategy it successfully employed during its expansion into Australia and the US, where it is now live in 14 states.” France refreshes Euro ambitions Corporately, a French launch extends Bet365’s growth trajectory and increases its footprint in another major regulated market, potentially setting the stage for a future sale. Bet365 reported a 9% year-on-year revenue increase to £4bn for the 12 months ending March 2025, bolstered by a 5% rise in sports betting and a 25% surge in online casino revenue. Nevertheless, pre-tax profits fell by 41% to £349m for the 2024/25 period, while operating profits dropped 40% to £218m, driven by costs rising from £687m to £896.5m due to expansion into new regulated territories. The company’s arrival is expected to drive up media inventory costs. With affiliates prepared to launch promotional campaigns, a surge in marketing activity is anticipated in the coming weeks. As a globally recognized betting brand, Bet365 already enjoys strong awareness among French bettors despite its previous absence. Additionally, its global UEFA Champions League sponsorship runs through 2027; the new license will allow the brand to advertise directly in French stadiums during UCL matches, replacing the "Follow Scores" branding used previously. France remains a mature, highly regulated, and heavily taxed market, where OSB serves as the primary growth driver in the absence of regulated online casino gaming. Following the announcement, industry insiders told SBC-G&Co that while they are not thrilled about the arrival of such a formidable competitor, they acknowledge that increased competition typically drives operational improvements and better product development. Natives ready to battle Nicolas Béraud – Betclic At the time, Nicolas Béraud, founder and president of Betclic (Banijay Group), told Les Echos that Bet365 possesses a “powerful brand” capable of impacting all operators. However, he noted that its “traditional English model, which focuses on technical bets favored by sophisticated players,” differs from Betclic’s approach, which he believes is “better suited to the French market.” Béraud also pointed out that while one of Bet365’s core strengths is its vast array of betting options, the strictly “regulated and limited offer” in France will restrict its ability to differentiate itself. He added that the country’s 85% Return to Player (RTP) requirement prevents the operator from utilizing its typical “best price,” low-margin model. Nevertheless, Béraud conceded that if the UK firm invests “millions of euros in marketing—which they have the resources to do—it will inevitably impact existing legal French operators.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Sportsbooks Loathe the NFL Draft, Citing ‘Zero Chance to Win’

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Sportsbooks are once again gearing up for another loss as the NFL Draft kicks off tonight. These betting establishments always approach the draft with a mix of anxiety and dislike, and this year is no exception. “Bookmakers can’t stand the draft,” said Jeff Benson, Circa Sports’ Director of Operations. “It’s a ton of work with no payoff, and we have absolutely no chance of winning. We lose five to six figures annually on it.” What makes the NFL Draft such a challenging event for sportsbooks? In today’s hyper-connected information era, they can’t keep up with savvy bettors hunting for actionable insights. “When dealing with any draft market—honestly, for most places—it’s not a question of whether you win or lose, but how much you lose,” said Thomas Gable, Director of the Borgata Sportsbook. “The sharper customers will get to information before you do.” Ed Salmons, vice president of risk at the Westgate Las Vegas SuperBook, told me three years ago that he didn’t “like the draft, but it’s simply something we have to do. You have no control over it—none at all. It’s not like a game where things happen and mistakes are made.” Unlike a real game, this is an information-driven market, and as Ben Fawkes writes: “…Once credible information is released and bet on, the market can shift quickly—and no money will come back on the opposite side. That information could arrive as fast as a single post on X from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.” DraftKings Sportsbook Director Johnny Avello shared similar views. “The draft has never been an easy event to handle for betting because it doesn’t rely on power ratings,” Avello said. “It’s not a matchup between two teams where you factor in home-field advantage and other things. It’s all about information.” Sportsbooks Adjust Their Strategies to Minimize Risk Sportsbooks have taken specific steps to reduce their risk of excessive losses related to the NFL Draft. These include: Launching betting markets later Reducing bet limits Providing fewer wagering options As a result, there are far fewer opportunities for sharp bettors to exploit sportsbooks. Matt Freedman, who has been betting on the NFL Draft since 2018, is among those affected. “I think in the 2021 NFL Draft, I placed over 300 different bets—an incredible number,” Freedman said. “But since sportsbooks took heavy hits in 2020 and 2021, I don’t see an incentive for them to go back to those wide-open markets. What we have now is a good indication of what we’ll see moving forward. I’d say it’s dried up for professional bettors.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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BGC Appoints Kane Purdy as New Chair Amid Regulatory Disputes

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has overhauled its senior leadership team amid fresh disputes and lobbying conflicts over gambling regulation and taxation in the UK. Kane Purdy, Managing Director of Gamesys Operations, has been appointed as the BGC’s new non-executive Chair. He assumes the role at the betting industry trade body with immediate effect, succeeding long-serving Chair Michael Dugher. Dugher, a former Labour MP for Barnsley East, stepped down from the position in January 2026. During his tenure, he led the organisation through a challenging regulatory phase for UK gambling, including the 2020–2023 review of the 2005 Gambling Act and the intense tax debates of the previous year. Purdy takes the helm at a time when the sector faces equally tough regulatory and financial challenges. The industry is adapting to the new tax regime launched in April 2026 and is also responding to calls from MPs and Lords for reforms to advertising and local licensing rules. “Kane brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and talent to this role, honed over two decades in the industry,” commented Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive Officer of the BGC. “He is a widely respected leader with a deep understanding of both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with operating in a regulated environment. He has also shown a strong commitment to collaboration, helping drive forward initiatives that strengthen standards and protections across the sector. “I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to champion our members, raise standards, and support a well-regulated industry that delivers for customers, the economy, and communities across the country.” Before joining Gamesys, Purdy worked at BetVictor from 2006 to 2008 as an IT Service Delivery Manager and at Betfred from 2008 to 2009 as an Operations Manager. He took on the Managing Director role at Gamesys in 2013 following a three-year stint at the now-defunct online and telephone operator Stan James. Kane Purdy, new Chair of the BGC – Source: BGC “I am honoured and delighted to take on the role of Chair of the Betting and Gaming Council,” Purdy stated. “After 20 years in the industry, I understand the importance of working collectively to meet challenges, raise standards, and ensure the regulated sector continues to thrive. “I look forward to collaborating closely with Grainne and the team, as well as with members across the industry, to build on the strong progress already made and help shape the future direction of the BGC.” At the BGC Annual Summit in February, Grainne Hurst noted that the trade body would continue to lobby for sustainable industry governance, with members ready to work alongside authorities to tackle the growing encroachment of the black market – something the BGC views as the “next generational threat to the UK gambling sector.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Kalshi’s Weather Markets and UFC Have Similar Trading Volumes, Yet Sports Remain Dominant

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   If prediction markets ever stop offering sports event contracts, what will Kalshi users place bets on? Could it be the weather? An analysis of Kalshi’s trading volume from January 1 to April 20 this year suggests that might indeed be the case. Two of Kalshi’s most popular non-sports markets center on daily high/low temperatures and precipitation. Our colleague Alex Weldon conducted an in-depth data dive, finding that the combined daily trading volume across both weather-related markets on Kalshi has averaged approximately $3,056,405 since the start of the year. A notable detail: for precipitation markets, Kalshi traders were far more active in betting on potential snowfall during winter months. The peak volume for precipitation markets was on January 4, hitting $5,401,881. Since March began, the highest trading volume—$453,231—was recorded on April 7. UFC Trading Volume Matches Weather Markets To provide context, we looked for a niche sport with trading volume comparable to Kalshi’s weather markets. UFC performed well in a direct comparison with the combined weather markets. From January 1 to April 20, daily trading volume for UFC bets averaged $2,903,762, roughly equal to the weather markets. Unsurprisingly, UFC betting activity was higher around actual events. The largest trading day came on April 11 for UFC 327 in Miami, which generated $45,019,798 in volume. We also analyzed a broader range of sports to compare their trading volumes. The UFC’s figures are modest compared to the NBA, which saw daily trading volume exceeding $100 million on eight occasions. The day after our monitoring period ended (a Tuesday), the NBA recorded $146,947,748 in trades—this year-to-date high coincided with three playoff games: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics, Portland Trailblazers vs. San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers. Below is the data on sports trading volumes from the start of the year through April 20: Sport Daily Trading Volume NBA$69,180,261PGA$11,579,225UFC$2,903,762Formula 1$141,059Cricket $117,123Rugby$3,782 The PGA’s trading volume spiked sharply during The Masters week (April 6-12), with $107,579,136 traded on the tournament’s final day. Last week’s RBC Heritage Classic in Hilton Head, which concluded on April 19, generated $18,623,390 in trading volume. During The Masters week, sports accounted for 85.8% of Kalshi’s total trading volume. That percentage dropped to 82.5% last week, but it’s clear that sports remain the lifeblood of prediction markets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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GR8 Tech upgrades player toolkit to boost retention ahead of 2026 World Cup

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   GR8 Tech is enhancing its suite of engagement and retention tools to assist operators in transforming temporary visitor surges into sustained value in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup.  Although major sporting events consistently generate surges in new sign-ups and deposits, the true business hurdle, as noted by the provider, is maintaining player activity after the initial few visits.  “While the World Cup can fuel large-scale player acquisition, it is retention that ultimately defines commercial success,” stated Kateryna Shevchenko, CRM Product Manager at GR8 Tech.  “Solutions that enable operators to act at the optimal time, offer transparent rewards, and minimize the workload involved in player engagement are key to maximizing the return on investment from such events – which is our primary focus.” A core component of this upgrade is a revamped loyalty program designed to boost transparency and sustained interaction, especially with the most valuable players. Players accumulate points from both casino and sports betting play, advancing through levels that provide access to improved reward terms. These feature organized cashback promotions on daily, weekly, and monthly bases, with comprehensive support for multiple currencies and cryptocurrencies. Integrated risk and fraud management features are also built into the system, enabling operators to react swiftly to shifts in player behavior while curbing the misuse of bonuses. Acknowledging that a string of losses is a major reason players leave, GR8 Tech has implemented an automated intervention system. Operators can define limits for losing bets, triggering the platform to issue a compensatory reward automatically within moments of the bet being settled. The goal is to alleviate disappointment at pivotal times and stop players from drifting away. GR8 Tech consolidates recent enhancements The firm is also tackling points of friction for new players by offering more choice in how they claim bonuses. Directly within the payment screen, users can now select, adjust, or decline bonus offers instead of being forced into a predetermined choice.  This development follows the company's statement last week about having 'prepared its casino vertical accordingly' for the upcoming World Cup.  The company has also recently upgraded its sportsbook platform and secured iconic football manager Jose Mourinho as a brand ambassador. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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DATA.BET: Shifts in taxation and regulation to alter European betting landscape

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   A prominent预测 technology figure in the European betting sector forecasts that the UK, France, Italy, and Germany might be displaced as the continent's top gambling markets. DATA.BET, a Cyprus-based supplier of sports and esports betting solutions, has highlighted the rising tax rates across Europe in its 2026 outlook, anticipating a shift in the industry's "balance of power." Taxes are undoubtedly expected to significantly impact the sector this year—a perspective shared not only by DATA.BET but also by numerous major gambling PLCs, including Flutter Entertainment, Entain, evoke, Betsson, and others. In its 2025 Sportsbook Report, DATA.BET referenced the scale of the British, Italian, French, and German markets, noting revenues of €30.8bn (£26.7m), €25.5bn, €18.8bn, and €17.8bn, respectively. Nevertheless, betting in the UK, France, and Germany now faces substantial taxes, such as the UK's new Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) of 40% (increased from 21%). Conversely, Italy offers a relatively favorable tax environment but enforces strict regulations, particularly regarding marketing. These circumstances could result in a changing of the guard, according to DATA.BET, which states that "as newly introduced legislation and tightening tax policies reshape the operating environment, the regional balance of power is unlikely to remain unchanged." Like all stakeholders in the European betting landscape, DATA.BET is incorporating the continent's tax and regulatory landscape into its strategic planning. The firm is prioritizing infrastructure reliability, risk management, and the expansion of its product ecosystem and content coverage to enhance engagement, thereby establishing a defense against the aforementioned challenges. Taxation isn't the only factor For the past year, it appears that taxation was the sole topic of conversation in iGaming. This was particularly evident in the UK, SBC News' home country, during the summer and autumn as the sector prepared for the HM Treasury's budget in November 2025. However, DATA.BET has identified non-tax factors it believes will shape the industry in 2026. The company anticipates a continued shift toward mobile-first consumption of betting products and content, fueled by 5G adoption. It also predicts increased convergence between gaming and betting audiences, largely driven by esports; a move toward operational speed, stability, and scale rather than technicality; and a growing significance for low-tier and semi-pro tournaments, which occur more often than major tier-one events. Given these various factors, how is DATA.BET positioned in 2026? The company reported a 55% rise in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in 2025, driven by a 105% surge in monthly active users and an 82% jump in daily active users. Additionally, it has grown its client network, with fully integrated partners increasing by over 200%. "We believe that transparency builds trust and propels the entire industry forward," stated Yurii Berest, Chief Executive Officer of DATA.BET. "At DATA.BET sits at the core of everything we do, and this report reflects that. With the addition of sports betting last year, we aim to demonstrate how our product continues to evolve and improve, and how we assist operators in growing their revenue through effective betting." This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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More Than Half of Children in South Korean Provinces Report Seeing Illegal Gambling Ads

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Over 50% of students in two South Korean regions report encountering or engaging with internet gambling advertisements. According to the South Korean daily Kangwon Ilbo, these results come from a study on youth gambling ordered by the Korea Gambling Problem Prevention and Treatment Center. The organization discovered that 56% of minors in Gangwon and Jeju had been exposed to gambling marketing content. More than 5% of those surveyed admitted to having gambled, a figure exceeding the nationwide average of approximately 3%. The center noted that the typical age for a first online wager among these youths was 12 and a half years. The center attributed the surge in youth gambling in these regions to peer influence and insufficient recreational options designed for young people. Minors informed the center that they frequently encounter ads promoting cash-betting games, illicit sports wagering, and internet casinos while browsing the web or using mobile applications. Some of the largest casinos in South Korea are located in Gangwon and Jeju. A news report by South Korean broadcaster MBN regarding a criminal event at a Jeju casino in the previous year. Children: Gambling Ads Have Become Ubiquitous In response, the center plans to introduce a campaign targeting youth to curb compulsive gambling, which will include interactive workshops for young people. The center stated that this anti-gambling campaign aligns with fresh regulations enacted by the National Assembly. Legislators recently approved changes to the Act on the Supervision of the Korea Gambling Control Commission, mandating that schools conduct gambling prevention education at least biannually. “Youth gambling is emerging as a critical issue,” a center spokesperson remarked. “Illegal wagering is increasingly common among the youth, becoming integrated into their everyday lives.” Law enforcement agencies across the nation have initiated amnesty programs for youth involved in gambling offenses. Officers indicated that minors and young adults who surrender during these amnesty windows will be granted pardons or reduced sentences. Concurrently, Korea Sports Leisure, the state sports lottery operator, has reiterated its request for whistleblowers on illegal sports betting to step forward. According to the Dong-A Ilbo, the operator is providing monetary rewards for information resulting in arrests. Korea Sports Leisure announced potential payouts of up to 200 million won (exceeding $135,000). Additionally, it urged athletes to report any knowledge of attempted match-fixing. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Former Rangers Player Suspended for Gambling Says He Only Wanted to Use Betting Shop Toilet

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Kevin Thomson, a former Rangers footballer, has disclosed that he was suspended for gambling during his tenure as a coach at the club. However, he asserts that he didn’t enter the betting shop to place a wager—he only needed to use the restroom. Thomson made 71 appearances for Rangers between 2007 and 2010. After retiring as a player in 2016, he took on a role as a youth coach at the club, and it was during this period that he was suspended for violating betting regulations. He shared details of the internal suspension in a conversation with Charlie Mulgrew, a former player for rival team Celtic, on The Breakdown podcast earlier this week. “I was only going in for the toilet,” Thomson claimed. “I was that miserable, I didn’t want to put a bet on. I just wanted the toilet.” Young Players Encouraged the Bet Still, the ex-Scotland international did place a football bet. He states that the under-14 youth players he coached prompted him to make the wager. “The lads were chatting about coupons (parlays) and all that,” Thomson said. “I wasn’t into coupons; I preferred horse racing and never really cared much for football betting. And since the boys were asking: do you fancy this team? You fancy that team? It planted a bit of a seed.” Needing to use the toilet urgently, Thomson got off the team bus on the way back from a match in Aberdeen, northern Scotland. The bus stopped near a William Hill betting shop—though such venues are becoming rarer in the UK as the company closes locations due to higher taxes. But the toilet door was locked. To get the key, Thomson told the shop assistant he planned to place a bet. After using the restroom, he wagered £20 (about $27) on a four-team parlay. CCTV Footage Catches the Incident The bet was successful, but instead of collecting the winnings himself, Thomson asked a colleague to go to the William Hill shop. “So he went in and collected my winnings on my behalf, which now looks suspicious,” Thomson said. “There was no suspicion in it.” However, club management was notified of the incident after CCTV cameras identified the Rangers coach. UK Rules Strictly Prohibit Players and Staff From Betting UK betting regulations ban players and coaching staff from placing any wagers on football. Several other players have faced penalties for gambling offenses, including an English player who received a five-month ban last year. Thomson received a lighter punishment because the matter was handled internally; he said he was given a two-match suspended ban. He left Rangers in 2021 and now runs his own football school, the Kevin Thomson Academy. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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BETER CRO details company’s forward-looking strategy and ambitions

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   BETER is setting its sights on the future as it broadens its content portfolio and enters new markets. At the SBC Summit Rio, BETER’s Chief Revenue Officer, Chuck Robert Robinson, met with SBC Noticias’ Ana Maria Menezes to talk about the firm's approach to eFootball, its broader objectives for player engagement, and the role of AI, regulation, and the worldwide betting market. European focus is on scaling. BETER's European strategy is evolving. Robinson characterizes the market as "more mature from a regulatory perspective," adding that they have gained a better insight into customer demands over the past year. Consequently, the company's aim in Europe is to scale effectively, identifying the optimal point with current clients to deliver substantial value at a fair cost. Achieving this also depends on consistently ensuring the integrity of their content. Excelling in this area provides BETER with the credibility and assurance operators require to trust they are receiving a top-tier product. “Filling the gaps” A significant portion of the discussion focused on how BETER's eSports and eSim content is intended to complement traditional sports instead of directly rivalling it. Referencing experiences from Euro 2024 and the Copa America 2024, Robinson explained that their eFootball content sees high engagement before matches, at halftime, and for up to three hours post-game. These are typically times when operators experience a major decline in user activity. Robinson observed, “As the tournament progresses and the number of matches decreases, our operators rely more on our content to maintain bettor engagement.” With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Robinson expressed confidence that demand for this supplementary content will grow substantially, noting that leading operators are already adding BETER's eSim products to their traditional sports sections. Integrity as a commercial differentiator Robinson emphasized that integrity has transitioned from a regulatory requirement to a central commercial offering. BETER's integrity framework is built on three pillars – education, due diligence, and prosecution – with Robinson highlighting its importance as the company expands into regulated markets like Peru, Argentina, Brazil, and the United States. AI: more than just a buzzword Discussing the future inevitably involves the global impact of AI. Robinson stated that BETER is similarly leveraging the technology. He explained that BETER is implementing AI throughout its operations, mainly to accelerate the development and pricing of betting markets, thereby decreasing dependence on manual trading. The technology is also used in its integrity monitoring system to detect irregularities within its catalog of 750,000 yearly events. Scaling across 150 markets Managing operations at its present scale poses difficulties, but Robinson identifies compliance and legal frameworks as the key facilitators. With a presence in 150 nations and a clientele comprising both B2B and B2C operators, Robinson stated that ensuring regulatory compliance across this extensive network is the team's biggest operational hurdle. However, when executed successfully, it transforms into the most distinct competitive edge a provider of their kind can possess. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Sportradar Accused of Assisting Illegal Gambling, Share Price Plummets

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Sportradar's stock price has plunged by nearly a quarter after a report from Muddy Waters Research alleged the firm is complicit in supporting unlawful gambling operations. Titled "Sportradar AG: Putting the BET into Aiding and Abetting," the report contends that up to 40% of the company's income could be derived from illicit operators. While Sportradar is the globe's leading sports data and integrity firm, Muddy Waters asserts this is merely a cover for its core activity of enabling illegal betting. The report states, "SRAD’s CEO likes to call his company the FBI of gambling. The FBI does not offer to introduce informants to human traffickers at trade shows." Undercover Investigation These claims originate from a covert operation at the ICE 2026 conference in Barcelona. Investigators from Muddy Waters posed as founders of a new sportsbook aiming to enter Asian markets. They informed Sportradar's sales representatives of their intent to attract customers in Vietnam, China, Thailand, and Indonesia—all nations with stringent prohibitions on gambling. Despite the laws, underground operators are widespread and have even secured celebrity promoters. Ryan Giggs recently faced criticism for advertising a platform that professed to be Vietnam's top online betting site. Although Sportradar says it watches the illegal sector "very closely," Muddy Waters calls "this a lie." The sales team showed no hesitation when probed about accessing prohibited markets, stating they "serve everyone" and proposing an introduction to the Yabo Group, China's biggest illegal gambling entity. Report Could Have Damaging Impact Muddy Waters Research acknowledges holding a short position against Sportradar. The firm is recognized for releasing exposés on public companies, typically after taking such short positions. The report has already hurt the share price, but the consequences could be broader. As Muddy Waters highlighted, Sportradar (SRAD) possesses B2B licenses in jurisdictions where it is expected to maintain Know Your Customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) protocols. Furthermore, it has alliances with sports leagues that must trust it to safeguard match integrity. Sportradar reported it oversaw more than 1 million sports events last year and said suspected match-fixing incidents declined. However, Muddy Waters argues the facade of protecting integrity is simply a cover to earn money from illegal gambling. "The paradox is structural," the report explains. "SRAD requires the lower-tier leagues for profit margins. It requires the integrity program to gain access to those leagues. It requires the illegal operators to increase income and assist with covering expenses." Cambodia at Center of Illegal Gambling Networks The charge that Sportradar is abetting not just illegal gambling but also human trafficking arises from the activities of Asian criminal syndicates. Muddy Waters alleges the Yabo Group's "Cambodian call centers are operated by trafficked and enslaved laborers." Authorities in Cambodia and nearby areas have moved against these operations, with the US and UK imposing sanctions on the suspected networks. Beyond housing illegal online gambling, these centers are also accused of running global scam operations. A raid on one location last December reportedly found lions that were allegedly used to torture gamblers who owed debts. Indonesian officials recently announced they had broken up an online gambling ring connected to Cambodia. Nevertheless, Amnesty International alleges that Cambodia's government is involved in permitting these unlawful gambling networks to persist. Stake & bet365 Among Companies Implicated in Report Beyond assisting illegal operators in restricted Asian markets, Muddy Waters further alleges Sportradar is advancing the black market in Russia and helping firms like Stake to function in the US without a license. The report also names bet365 as conducting illegal activities in prohibited markets. The company is confronting legal action in New Zealand over accusations it targeted customers there using offshore licenses from Gibraltar and Malta. The 123-page document identifies several other gambling companies. Regulators globally might soon initiate probes into Sportradar's practices. Sportradar was asked for a statement but had not replied by the publication deadline. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Caesars Entertainment Faces Lawsuit for Alleged 2023 and Recent Data Breaches

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Caesars Entertainment is currently confronting a class action lawsuit over alleged data breaches that occurred in 2023 and once more earlier this year. The firm experienced a highly publicized security compromise in September 2023. The lawsuit claims the company failed to address its security flaws and suffered another data hack in early 2026. The plaintiff, Mark Huddleston, asserts his data was stolen by cybercriminals, and holds Caesars responsible for failing to properly safeguard his personal information. “Caesars ignored the rights of the Plaintiff and Class Members by negligently failing to implement reasonable measures to safeguard Private Information and by skipping necessary steps to prevent unauthorized disclosure of that information,” the complaint states. “Caesars’s woefully inadequate data security measures made the Data Breach a foreseeable, and even likely, consequence of its negligence.” Huddleston is a Texas resident and states he has been a Caesars Rewards member since 2007. He submitted the lawsuit to the U.S. District Court in Nevada, where Caesars maintains its headquarters. Caesars Paid Ransom to Limit Harm From the Hack In 2023, Caesars is reported to have paid a $15 million ransom to the hacking group Scattered Spider. At the time, Caesars released a statement saying, “We have taken steps to ensure that the stolen data is deleted by the unauthorized actor, although we cannot guarantee this result. We are actively monitoring the internet and have not found any evidence that the data has been further shared, published, or otherwise misused.” The lawsuit alleges that the breach exposed Huddleston and other similarly affected individuals to “threats of identity theft crimes, fraud, scams, and other misuses of their Private Information.” It notes the lawsuit meets class action eligibility requirements as total damages exceed $5 million stemming from the compromise of more than 100 customers’ data. Caesars Delayed Notifying Authorities and Users The Scattered Spider attack specifically targeted Caesars Rewards members, impacting as many as 65 million users. Caesars did not immediately alert authorities or its customers of the incident. In a LinkedIn post, Cybersecurity Strategist Matthew Rosenquist claims the actual attack took place in August 2023, but Caesars did not report it until September. The company then mailed a notification letter to users (copy included below) in October. “Time is of the essence when highly sensitive Private Information is subject to unauthorized access and/or acquisition,” the lawsuit states. “The disclosed, accessed, and/or acquired Private Information of Plaintiff and Class Members is now likely available on the Dark Web.” Second Breach Took Place Earlier This Year The lawsuit claims that Caesars failed to adequately protect data following the 2023 attack, leading to a second breach earlier this year. This incident has received far less public attention, but the lawsuit references a March article that cites social media rumors of another attack. A post on X alleged that Caesars employees lost access to Okta, an internal system used to manage login credentials. Update: Caesars employees have lost mobile access to Okta (software that helps manage logins across internal systems), presumably as a preventative measure. The last time Caesars was hacked, gaining access to the Okta platform was a key vulnerability resulting in the data breach. https://t.co/u6SUNzLRkQ— Vital Vegas (@VitalVegas) March 3, 2026 The lawsuit alleges that the stolen data includes, “at a minimum, Plaintiff’s and Class Members’ contact information and dates of birth. But based on the types of Private Information that were taken in the 2023 breach, it can be expected that even more sensitive information, including Social Security numbers and driver’s license numbers were also stolen in 2026.” The complaint alleges that the repeated breaches violate Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) guidelines. The FTC did not issue any sanctions against Caesars for the 2023 breach. Last year, the company was ordered to pay a $7.8 million fine over anti-money laundering failures. The casino group is alleged to have allowed illegal bookmakers to launder funds at its properties. Earlier this month, a former employee also filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging his termination was the result of racial discrimination. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Chris Bird of 1xBet on ensuring responsible marketing for sports betting operators

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Partnering with renowned sports organizations is a standard brand awareness tactic for sports betting and online casino operators seeking to acquire new customers. 1xBet, an international sports betting company holding over 35 local licenses, is an example of a firm that has leveraged alliances with some of the globe's most famous sports entities to boost its international brand recognition. The company is assembling a sponsorship portfolio that mirrors the scope and variety of international sport. From teams like FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain to leagues such as LaLiga and Serie A, the emphasis has been on collaborations with significant sporting relevance and fan engagement. However, associating with such prominent brands and their devoted, frequently impressionable supporters carries a heightened degree of responsibility. Why do operators sponsor major sporting brands? Chris Bird, a media expert recently hired as a consultant for 1xBet, states that firms must view these collaborations as opportunities for reputation building alongside commercial gains. “You cannot engage in a sponsorship of this nature with a sole focus on the financial benefits,” Bird stated. “These alliances offer immense visibility and clout, which also introduces an obligation to safeguard the reputation of the sport, the sponsoring company, and the fans. “Every action must be founded on doing the correct thing, in the proper manner, communicating transparently, and proving that sports sponsorships can be executed with genuine integrity.” Bird possesses experience from both perspectives of the sponsorship dynamic. In addition to counseling operators like 1xBet and Betfred, he formerly held the position of Chief Operating Officer at Manchester City FC from 1999 to 2003. In the time since, the connection between professional sports and the gambling industry has often been under scrutiny, frequently accompanied by critiques from advocacy groups who contend that betting firms have grown excessively prevalent in sports. However, Bird observes that the merging of sport, entertainment, and betting mirrors an authentic demand from enthusiasts. “It is undeniable that sport, entertainment, and wagering have become increasingly intertwined over the past twenty years,” he elaborated. “The explanation for this is straightforward: a segment of sports fans likes to bet on match results. “When you spend time among the fans, as I did during my years following and working for Manchester City and in football generally, you understand that for many supporters, it is simply a component of the matchday ritual. “This convergence has occurred because the fan communities themselves have merged. Supporters desire thrill and involvement around the game, and betting companies have progressively provided that through more interactive and engaging methods.” What does responsible gambling sponsorship look like? Bird is collaborating extensively with 1xBet to advise the company on responsible gambling protocols and how these tenets should influence its sponsorship strategy. His function, he clarified, focuses on preserving integrity within sports partnerships. “My collaboration with them is essentially about guaranteeing that integrity is the core of every sports sponsorship,” he remarked. “It involves posing the correct questions: Is this alliance suitable? Are the communications responsible? Are we safeguarding the audience while also promoting the brand?” Bird’s viewpoint is also informed by his role as CEO of the Raheem Sterling Foundation, where he has backed programs that work with people and families impacted by addiction. “That involvement provides a very tangible comprehension of the consequences when situations deteriorate. It underscores the importance of detecting potential issues early and, more critically, concentrating on prevention instead of remediation.” Due to that experience, Bird is convinced that integrity must be the foundation of any venture he participates in. “In my view, any partnership in this arena must be grounded in integrity and fundamental decency,” he continued. “My observation of 1xBet is of a company that treats player protection seriously and is considerate about integrating these principles into its marketing.” He contends that education is pivotal to this methodology. “Their philosophy acknowledges that education must be a top priority,” he said. “If you visualize sponsorship as a pyramid, the commercial aspect may be at the peak, but the base must be integrity and protection. “As you ascend that pyramid, all elements are linked. It is impossible to construct a robust commercial framework without a solid foundation of integrity supporting it.” What is the future of gambling sponsorship in sport? It is widely reported that the Premier League is implementing a voluntary prohibition on gambling sponsorships on the front of shirts starting next season. Many anticipate these deals will transition to alternatives like perimeter advertising or training kit sponsorships, though these agreements are not expected to equal the monetary worth of shirt-front partnerships. Although the shift may affect Premier League clubs, Bird thinks the repercussions could be more substantial for clubs lower in the football hierarchy. “For clubs in lower divisions, from the Championship down to non-league, the scenario becomes far more complex,” he noted. “If a club such as Accrington Stanley or Hyde United gets a sponsorship proposal from a betting firm and that revenue enables them to cover staff wages, support athletes, upgrade infrastructure, and fund grassroots football, that money can truly contribute to securing the club's longevity. “The ensuing question is, should they be obliged to reject that chance outright?” Bird is of the opinion that complete prohibitions might not always be the most efficient method for fan protection. “There remains a role in sports for credible betting companies that function responsibly and ethically,” he concluded. “However, those companies need to show they are committed to education, player safety, and a duty of care. If these principles are firmly established, then betting sponsorships can continue to have a place in sports in a manner that is both responsible and sustainable.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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1xBet’s Chris Bird Discusses Ensuring Responsible Sports Marketing for Operators

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Partnering with prominent sporting institutions is a tried-and-true brand awareness strategy for sports betting and online casino operators looking to attract new customers. 1xBet, a global sports betting operator holding over 35 local licenses, is among these firms that have leveraged partnerships with some of the world’s most recognizable sporting groups to boost its worldwide brand recognition.   This operator is building a sponsorship portfolio that mirrors the scale and diversity of global sports. Ranging from clubs like FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain to competitions including LaLiga and Serie A, the focus has been on partnerships with strong sporting relevance and fan engagement. However, collaborating with these high-profile organizations and their loyal, often impressionable fan bases comes with an elevated level of responsibility. Why do sports betting operators partner with top sporting brands? Chris Bird, a media expert recently appointed as a consultant for 1xBet, states that companies should approach these partnerships as equally much reputation-building opportunities as commercial ones. “You shouldn’t enter into a sponsorship like this only focusing on the financial upside,” Bird shared. “These partnerships come with massive visibility and influence, so they also carry a responsibility to protect the reputation of the sport, the sponsor and the fans. “Every action you take must center on doing what’s right, in the proper manner, communicating transparently, and demonstrating that sports sponsorship can be conducted with genuine integrity.” Bird has firsthand experience from both sides of the sponsorship dynamic. In addition to advising operators such as 1xBet and Betfred, he previously served as Chief Operating Officer at Manchester City FC between 1999 and 2003. Since that time, the relationship between professional sports and the gambling industry has frequently made headlines, often facing criticism from advocacy groups who argue that betting companies have grown overly dominant in the sports space. Yet Bird notes that the growing overlap between sport, entertainment and betting reflects genuine fan demand. “There’s no doubt that over the last two decades sport, entertainment and betting have become more closely connected,” he explained. “But the reason for that is quite simple: a share of sports fans enjoy betting on match outcomes. “When you spend time on the terraces, as I did during my years supporting and working at Manchester City and in football more broadly, you realize that for many supporters, betting is simply part of the matchday experience. “This convergence has happened because the fan communities themselves have merged. Fans want excitement and engagement around the game, and betting companies have increasingly delivered that through more interactive, entertaining methods.” What does responsible gambling sponsorship entail? Bird is working closely with 1xBet to help guide the company on responsible gambling practices and how those principles should shape its sponsorship activity. His role, he clarified, focuses on upholding integrity across all sports partnerships. “My work with them is all about ensuring integrity lies at the heart of every sports sponsorship,” he shared. “It’s about asking the right questions: Is this partnership appropriate? Are our messaging responsible? Are we protecting the audience as well as promoting the brand?” Bird’s perspective is also shaped by his work as CEO of the Raheem Sterling Foundation, where he has supported initiatives that engage with individuals and families affected by addiction. “That experience gives you a very real understanding of what happens when things go wrong. It reinforces the need to identify potential problems early and, more importantly, to focus on prevention rather than cure.” Given this background, Bird believes integrity must underpin any project he becomes involved in. “For me, any partnership in this space has to be rooted in integrity and basic decency,” he added. “What I’ve seen from 1xBet is a company that takes the issue of player protection seriously and is thoughtful about how those principles are built into its marketing.” Education, he argues, is central to that approach. “Their thinking recognises that education has to sit right at the top of the agenda,” he said. “If you imagine sponsorship as a pyramid, the commercial element might sit at the top, but the foundation has to be integrity and safeguarding. “As you move up that pyramid, everything is connected. You simply cannot build a strong commercial structure without strong integrity underneath it.” What lies ahead for gambling sponsorship in sports? It is well documented that the Premier League is introducing a voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsorship from the start of next season. Many expect those partnerships to shift toward alternatives such as perimeter advertising or training kit sponsorships, although these deals are unlikely to match the financial value of shirt-front partnerships. While the change may impact Premier League clubs, Bird believes the consequences could be more significant further down the football pyramid. “For clubs lower down the leagues from the Championship through to non-league the situation becomes much more complicated,” he said. “If a club like Accrington Stanley or Hyde United receives a sponsorship offer from a betting company and that income allows them to pay staff, support players, improve facilities and invest in grassroots football, that funding can genuinely help secure the club’s future. “The question then becomes, should they automatically have to turn that opportunity down?” Bird believes that outright bans may not necessarily provide the most effective route to protecting fans. “There is still a place in sport for reputable betting companies that operate responsibly and with integrity,” he concluded. “But those companies must demonstrate that they are serious about education, player protection and duty of care. If those principles are clearly embedded, then betting partnerships can still exist in sport in a way that is both responsible and sustainable.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Sportradar Denies Short Seller Claims, Vows to Fight Back as Shares Fall

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Sportradar has declared its firm intention to dispute accusations of its involvement with illicit gambling activities, following a significant drop in its share price due to these claims. Reports from two investment research companies, Callisto Research and Muddy Waters, allege that Sportradar has been supplying services to unlawful operators, even as it offers integrity services to legitimate businesses and sports bodies. Both Callisto and Muddy Waters have taken short positions on Sportradar's stock, effectively wagering on a decrease in its value. These two firms operate as short sellers, establishing short positions in companies and then releasing critical research and allegations, which typically result in a fall in share price. This strategy has proven successful for the pair concerning Sportradar. By 4pm BST on April 22, 2026, Sportradar’s stock price on the New York Nasdaq had decreased by 22.75% to $13 per share, a notable drop from its average of $16-$18 over the preceding five days. Allegations from Short Sellers The accusations from Muddy Waters and Callisto Research are extensive, but fundamentally charge Sportradar with hypocrisy: offering its integrity monitoring services to regulated entities while simultaneously selling other services to unlawful operators. Muddy Waters asserts that it dispatched representatives to Sportradar’s booth at the ICE trade show in Barcelona earlier this year. These representatives posed as members of a newly established betting firm targeting Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and China. Online sports wagering is prohibited in three of these four nations, and in Vietnam, it is limited solely to horse racing, greyhound racing, and international football fixtures.  Muddy Waters claims that “not a single Sportradar salesperson declined” their inquiry, and that their representatives were later directed to a Sportradar salesperson specializing in Asia.  Callisto, for its part, alleges that between 30% and 40% of Sportradar’s revenue might originate from unregulated markets. It also claims to have presented its findings to European and North American regulators, stating that three of these have initiated investigations. “We contend that Sportradar will face a choice: either forgo its earnings from illegal operators or risk losing its licenses in Europe and North America,” Callisto states. Sportradar Responds Sportradar holds integrity partnerships with numerous prominent sports organizations, such as FIFA, UEFA, the National Basketball Association (NBA), National Hockey League (NHL), and Major League Baseball (MLB). Accusations of collaboration with illicit firms—operators frequently linked to match-fixing—pose a significant danger to Sportradar’s global integrity operations. This also emerges as regulators and governments worldwide are dedicating increased resources to combating the black market. For instance, the UK has established a taskforce against illegal gambling. Leading operators such as Flutter Entertainment and Entain have openly advocated for stricter measures against black market activities, and the involvement of Asian-focused, non-UK licensed bookmakers in the English Premier League has sparked debate in the nation. Claims that Sportradar is engaging with companies in this sector could harm the Swiss firm’s relationships with some of the largest licensed gambling operators. It is anticipated that the company will vigorously contest these allegations. A statement from Sportradar asserted, “The short reports released today contain numerous factual inaccuracies regarding Sportradar, and we unequivocally dispute these claims.” “These reports exhibit a profound misinterpretation of our business and the industry, and were penned by short sellers aiming to diminish shareholder value and profit from market volatility.” “Sportradar collaborates solely with licensed operators, adheres to stringent global compliance and due diligence protocols, and we uphold our independently audited financial statements, risk disclosures, and the information supplied to investors and regulators.” “We conduct our operations in accordance with the highest ethical standards, consistent with Sportradar’s policies and all relevant laws and regulations.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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New Zealand Bill on iGaming Regulation Clears Final Reading

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   New Zealand’s legislation to govern online gambling has cleared its final parliamentary hurdle and is now awaiting Royal Assent. The existing Gambling Act, which dates back to 2003, has long been a point of contention due to a regulatory gap that permitted domestic users to access offshore online gambling platforms. The incoming regulatory structure paves the way for a market launch featuring 15 online gambling permits, fostering a competitive landscape similar to other established international gaming jurisdictions. Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden stated: “The Bill…supports the coalition agreement by closing the gambling tax loophole and requiring licensed online casino operators to pay tax, just like any other business operating in New Zealand.” The legislation introduces requirements for player protection systems, tax structures for permit holders, and legal consequences for non-compliance, including fines reaching up to NZ $5m (£2.1m) for significant or recurring violations. “Under the new framework, up to 15 licences will be available through a competitive process. Licensed operators will be required to exclude problem gamblers, and meet strict harm prevention and consumer protection requirements,” van Velden added. “These tools will ensure that New Zealand law applies to all online casino gambling available in New Zealand, regardless of where operators are located, closing off avenues for avoidance and strengthening the regulator’s ability to monitor and enforce compliance by international operators.” Furthermore, following extensive advocacy from Labor MPs, the bill incorporates mandatory requirements to allocate a portion of the revenue generated by licensed online operators toward community initiatives across New Zealand. “Submissions on this Bill made it clear that New Zealanders also want the benefits from the online casino gambling to flow back to local sports clubs, community groups, and grassroots organisations. This Bill delivers on that expectation,” the Minister noted. Royal Assent is anticipated on 1 May. The current schedule aims to begin accepting licence applications on 1 December, with the 15 successful bidders slated to commence operations on 1 July 2027. At present, Entain possesses an exclusive permit to provide sports betting via TAB NZ’s local operations. The international gambling firm has previously indicated its intention to secure three of the 15 available licences. Conversely, SkyCity Entertainment Group, the nation’s primary land-based casino operator, may be less optimistic. The firm had previously communicated its reservations to van Velden regarding the introduction of a multi-licence online casino market. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Altenar and Racing and Sports join forces to bolster the horse racing industry

23 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Australian-listed company Racing and Sports has confirmed a new partnership with sportsbook and iGaming platform provider Altenar. This agreement represents the final stage of a relationship spanning several years and a major advancement for distributing racing content on worldwide sportsbook platforms. The announcement coincides with increasing demand for premium, integrated racing products. This trend is evident in markets like the UK, where, despite current challenges, horse and greyhound racing continue to be essential parts of the betting landscape. For Altenar's growing operator network, the collaboration signals a strategic change in its approach to the racing vertical, with Racing and Sports enlisted to provide a comprehensive, end-to-end solution. During an 18-month collaboration, the partners worked to outline the ideal modern racing product, carefully weighing content depth, integration simplicity, and commercial performance. The outcome, according to the companies, is a unified offering that merges official data, editorial content, and pricing services via one single integration. “After a relationship that has developed over many years, we are tremendously proud to officially partner with Altenar,” stated Jack Kelliher, Commercial Director at Racing and Sports. “Ever since we established our UK operations, we were confident that Altenar was a company we could generate significant value alongside. “This is far more than simply incorporating racing content for Altenar. It is about equipping their partners with a more robust, commercially competitive product in a market where racing is indispensable.” Thanks to direct agreements with major rights holders such as Racecourse Media Group (RMG), Arena Racing Company (ARC), PMU, SIS, and 1/ST Content, the integration offers access to a wide array of official racing data and content in numerous jurisdictions. Altenar to strengthen sportsbook offering From Altenar's viewpoint, this initiative is part of a broader plan to enhance its sportsbook offerings within crucial verticals. Antonis Karakousis, Director of Operations at Altenar, commented: “This partnership signifies a key milestone in Altenar's strategy to expand our racing content portfolio. “Racing and Sports contributes profound expertise in horse racing and greyhounds, positioning us to provide exceptional value to our global operators and their players.” Although the UK is a logical focus due to its established racing market, both companies identify considerable international potential. Racing and Sports already has a presence in over 30 jurisdictions and provides content in seven languages, creating a platform for Altenar to expand its racing product worldwide. Both organizations continue to identify opportunities domestically and internationally, even with persistent regulatory challenges and a trend of declining engagement, especially in the UK. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.