The Premier League is facing renewed criticism over its ties to betting companies, especially after four clubs – Bournemouth, Fulham, Newcastle United, and Wolves – were warned by the UK Gambling Commission.
These clubs are still promoting betting brands linked to TGP Europe, a company that has given up its UK gambling licence following a major investigation. The Commission has said that clubs could face legal action if they continue to promote unlicensed operators.
Despite this, logos of sites like bj88 and Sbotop still appear on shirts and stadium adverts. Gambling companies make up over half of all front-of-shirt sponsors in the Premier League this season, bringing in around $135 million.
The issue goes beyond money. It raises serious legal and moral concerns, especially as some of these clubs also run programmes to support people struggling with gambling addiction.
Although a ban on shirt sponsorships by betting firms will come into effect in 2026, this three-year grace period is proving controversial, especially when clubs continue to work with brands that break UK gambling laws.
The Premier League must now choose: carry on as usual and risk losing public trust, or make real changes and cut ties with these companies.
