Turkish Football Federation Enforces Penalties to Combat Illegal Betting Ads in Soccer

Financial Penalties and Tiered Punishments for Violations

Under the new regulations, clubs found endorsing illegal betting operators face a progressive penalty system. First-time violators will incur a fine of TRY 2 million (around $58,400), with fines increasing to TRY 5 million ($146,000) for a second offense. Upon a third violation, clubs will pay the maximum fine of TRY 10 million ($292,000).

Any further breaches will not only result in the TRY 10 million fine but also lead to a three-point deduction from the club’s league standing, a move that could significantly impact their season’s performance.

Strict Prohibitions on Illegal Operator Advertising

In an official announcement, the TFF emphasized that clubs must refrain from promoting illegal betting operators in all forms, including media appearances, billboard advertising, and branded sports equipment.

The federation further clarified that partnerships with entities linked to illegal gambling are equally prohibited.

Türkiye’s Struggle Against Illegal Betting and Gambling Harm

Türkiye’s prohibition of casinos in 1998 and non-state online gambling in 2006 has not prevented the continued presence of illegal betting, which remains a pressing issue.

It’s estimated that Turkish citizens spend around $2.9 billion annually on unauthorized betting, fueling concerns over gambling-related harm, particularly among the youth.

Rising Problem Gambling Among Youth

Reports have highlighted troubling trends in youth gambling rates, with cases of children as young as nine participating in betting.

This surge in youth gambling has led to a notable increase in gambling addiction, according to Yesilay, a leading organization combating addiction in Türkiye.

The resilience of illegal operators online and the accessibility of unauthorized sites exacerbate this issue, creating significant obstacles for regulators aiming to protect vulnerable groups.