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Gambling Sponsorship Trends in European Football
The Premier League currently does not maintain an official partnership with any gambling organization. However, Uefa made headlines last summer by introducing its inaugural formal gambling sponsor, marking a significant step in the relationship between football and the gambling industry.
A report from Uefa titled “European Club Finance and Investment Landscape” reveals that gambling companies are emerging as the predominant sponsors of top-flight clubs in several European nations. Countries such as Belgium, Greece, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, and Russia have notably high levels of sponsorship from gambling entities.
Shirt Sponsorship Landscape Across Europe
In terms of shirt sponsorships within the top leagues of Europe, the gambling sector is leading the way. The most notable trend is observed in the Championship, where a total of six clubs—including Burnley, Middlesbrough, QPR, Stoke, Sunderland, and Watford—have opted for gambling firms as their shirt sponsors.
Conversely, lower divisions such as League One and League Two show a different pattern, with no gambling brands featured on team shirts. The most frequently seen sponsors in these leagues come from the energy, automotive, and food and drink industries.
Scottish Premiership: A Closer Look
In Scotland, the gambling sponsorship narrative continues, with three clubs in the Premiership—Celtic, Dundee United, and Rangers—partnering with gambling firms. This underscores the wide acceptance and integration of gambling sponsorships in football culture across various leagues and regions.
As the landscape of sponsorship continues to evolve, the implications for clubs, fans, and the broader football community remain to be seen. The intertwining of sports and gambling presents both opportunities and challenges, suggesting a need for ongoing dialogue about the role of such partnerships in the future of the game.
Source
www.bbc.com