The Premier League will ban gambling advertising

For player protection advocates, this is a step in the right direction. However, it quickly becomes clear that a larger initiative is still expected. Gambling advertising is by no means completely banned. Rather, the clubs’ concession only applies to front-of-the-jersey advertising.

After all, this is the most prominent advertising space, which the players themselves also display. Since the teams earn many millions with their gambling advertising partners, this step is somewhat surprising.

How the clubs came to take this initiative, why the advertising ban primarily benefits the big clubs, and whether a similar measure is also under discussion in Germany will be examined in the following sections.

How the voluntary ban on gambling advertising came about

Billions of people worldwide watch the Premier League. Consequently, the clubs’ jerseys are under intense scrutiny. Young fans, in particular, watch the players with keen interest.

This could easily create the impression that gambling is acceptable. After all, one’s idol is sporting a corresponding advertisement on their jersey. Apparently, the club bosses in England themselves are not happy with this perception.

Ultimately, the compromise was reached on a voluntary basis. A meeting of those responsible took place. Twenty Premier League clubs participated. The FA was also present.

The result: Gambling advertising will be banned on the front of jerseys starting in the 2026/27 season. As mentioned, it’s a first step. After all, it is the most prominent form of advertising on the entire football pitch.

Sports betting and casino providers are only disappearing from the front of the jersey.

“Simply moving logos to another part of the kit while allowing advertising to continue on the sidelines is completely incoherent,” James Grimes, a recovered addict, told The Guardian.

Player advocates are demanding more responsibility from clubs. It’s true that gambling advertising will still be visible beyond the 2026/27 season. This applies to the advertising boards, but also to shirt sleeves and other advertising channels.

Why are there so many gambling partners in the industry in the first place? Because it’s profitable from a business perspective. Players are ubiquitous with the provider’s logo: on the pitch, during post-match commentary, and even in press photos.

The advertising impact is undeniable.

Why does the advertising ban only apply from the 2026/27 season?

The clubs’ economic interests must also be considered. Therefore, those in charge have decided not to terminate any existing contracts with gambling companies. Deals already made beforehand are thus unaffected. Clubs that currently have a gambling partner advertising on the front of their jerseys will therefore receive a three-year reprieve. During this period, they can conclude contracts with other companies for future jersey advertising.

Summary of the Premier League’s End of Gambling Advertising

On a voluntary basis, the 20 Premier League club owners have agreed to phase out gambling sponsorships starting with the 2026/27 season. However, this does not apply to all advertising space.

Only the front of the jersey is affected by the ban. Online Casinos and other Gambling partners may continue to appear on the sleeves, advertising boards, and other advertising spaces.

Experts see this decision as a step in the right direction. It is quite possible that a broader ban on gambling advertising will be implemented later. On the other hand, it is only logical that existing contracts are respected.