Athletes being banned from online gambling ads in Ontario; AGCO imposing restrictions on celebrities
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The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario is cracking down on athletes advertising for online gambling.
They’re updating the Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming to completely ban any athletes, whether active or retired, from advertising for igaming in the province. They are also restricting the use of celebrities in the ads over fears they could be encouraging minors to gamble.
The new restrictions will take effect February 28, 2024.
The decision was made after people raised concerns about the ads and how they could impact those underage.
The commission launched consultations before officially changing the standards.
The only way athletes will be allowed to appear in igaming ads is to encourage responsible gambling practices.
The restrictions for celebrities will also apply to role models, social media influencers, entertainers, cartoon figures and symbols that “would likely be expected to appeal to minors.”
“Children and youth are heavily influenced by the athletes and celebrities they look up to,” said Tom Mungham, Registrar and CEO, AGCO. “We’re therefore increasing measures to protect Ontario’s youth by disallowing the use of these influential figures to promote online betting in Ontario.”
