KSA cracks down on unauthorised youth match betting
The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch Gaming Authority, has found several cases of unauthorised betting on youth and amateur football matches in the 2023/24 season. This is proof of the authority’s ongoing efforts to monitor gambling and prevent illegal activities in the Netherlands.
Seven matches under the microscope
In this season, the KSA has flagged seven matches for irregularities. These were matches with corner kicks and bookings, considered high risk for manipulation. Matches with players under 21 are extra sensitive and are not allowed for betting purposes in the Netherlands.
As a result of these violations, the KSA has issued stop and desist orders to the parties involved. Although the parties are not named, the authority has also warned all licensed operators to be on the lookout and to report similar incidents. The KSA is monitoring whether the unauthorised betting has stopped and will take action if not.
Regulated markets and player protection
The Netherlands has strict restrictions on betting markets to protect sports and young athletes. Bets on matches with under-21 players and specific events like bookings are not allowed because they are vulnerable to manipulation. This is part of the country’s approach to fair and responsible betting.
This development follows a broader effort by the KSA to crack down on regulatory violations. In recent months, the authority has intervened in several cases involving sponsorship breaches linked to sporting events.
