Weekly Briefing: Italy's Football Betting Tax Proposal, European Regulators' Anti-Illegal Efforts, and Other Industry Headlines

Italian Senator Proposes 2% Levy on Football Bets to Fund Sport Development

A new bill in Italy, spearheaded by Senator Paolo Marcheschi, seeks to channel tax revenue from domestic football wagers directly into the sport's growth. Bill 1902 would impose a 2% tax on all football bets placed within the country, with proceeds earmarked for the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to support youth development, social projects, women's football, and grassroots initiatives. The proposal estimates that around €230m could be redirected annually into a FIGC-managed fund. Marcheschi stresses that the levy does not constitute state aid but rather creates a self-sustaining ecosystem for football. The Ministry of Economy and Finance would define implementation rules. Former FIGC president Gabriele Gravina has voiced support for the measure.

European Regulators Forge United Front Against Illegal Online Gambling

In November 2025, seven European gambling authorities agreed to intensify cooperation against unlicensed operators. According to a special report, the illegal online gambling market in Europe generated €80.6bn in revenue in 2024, outstripping the regulated sector. The regulators committed to sharing intelligence, pressing digital platforms to tighten controls, and exchanging enforcement best practices. Since then, complaints to platforms have increased, with the UK and Portugal taking notable actions. However, challenges persist as operators use mirror sites and cryptocurrencies to evade blocks. Experts argue that aligning operational standards and making licensed markets more competitive are key to shrinking the illegal market sustainably. Long-term success hinges on sustained platform accountability and legislative backing.

Indiana Bans Sweepstakes Casinos as Law Takes Effect

Indiana's House Bill 1052, signed by Governor Mike Braun, prohibits online sweepstakes casinos that rely on dual-currency systems. Co-sponsored by Representatives Manning, Mayfield, and Moed, the legislation imposes fines up to $100,000 on violators. Tennessee and Oklahoma have enacted similar bans, while Chicago recently rejected a proposal to outlaw sweepstakes machines. The law aims to regulate online gambling and shield consumers from potentially harmful practices.

Scotland Opens Applications for Gambling Levy Funding

Grassroots organizations in Scotland can now apply for a portion of a new £375,000 funding pool dedicated to gambling research and harm prevention. The money, drawn from Scotland's share of the UK gambling levy and administered by the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland, will support projects on gambling-related harms, mental health, and suicide prevention. The application deadline is August 14, with a focus on early intervention and services for vulnerable individuals. The government treats gambling harm as a public health issue, citing links to housing insecurity, debt, and substance abuse. Minister for Mental Health Maree Todd encouraged charities to apply, emphasizing the need to tackle hidden harms. Sara Redmond, Chief Officer at the ALLIANCE, underscored the importance of understanding and supporting those affected by gambling in Scotland.

Christian Hochgrebe Appointed Chair of German Gambling Regulator

Germany's federal gambling regulator, the GGL, has named Christian Hochgrebe as the new chairman of its administrative board, replacing Sandro Kirchner. The appointment comes as Germany reviews its gambling legislation. The upcoming evaluation of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021) will focus on advertising, deposit limits, and customer protection. The GGL aims to strengthen enforcement against illegal gambling and improve conditions for licensed operators. Hochgrebe stressed the need to adapt to current developments and enhance oversight of legal providers. Board member Ronald Benter highlighted the importance of cooperation with federal states under Hochgrebe's leadership. The regulator anticipates a challenging year ahead.

Industry Leaders Weigh In on Balancing Advertising Rules and Channelisation

In the latest installment of "5 Leaders – 1 Question," Focus Gaming News asked five industry figures how European regulators can balance stricter gambling advertising rules with maintaining high channelisation to licensed operators. The panel included Grainne Hurst (BGC CEO), David Yatom Hay (Soft2Bet general counsel), Andy Danson (Bird & Bird head of media, entertainment & sport), Filip Knežević (president of Montenegro's Association of Gambling Operators), and Michel Groothuizen (chairman of the Netherlands Gambling Authority). They agreed that while advertising safeguards for minors and vulnerable groups are essential, overly restrictive or near-ban regimes risk weakening channelisation by making licensed operators less visible than offshore rivals. Hurst and Yatom Hay called for proportionate, evidence-based rules and treating channelisation as an actively managed outcome. Danson warned that legal brands need sufficient marketing scope to compete with unregulated offers. Knežević cited the Netherlands, Sweden, and Montenegro as examples where harsh controls and high player taxes fueled grey-market growth. Groothuizen cautioned that tougher rules must be paired with stronger action against illegal advertising, especially on social media, to truly protect consumers.