Turkish Soccer Introduces Fines for Clubs Promoting Illegal Betting

The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has published new regulations in an effort to push back against illegal sports betting ads in professional soccer. Turkish soccer clubs that violate these new rules now risk penalties.

Clubs that Endorse Illegal Operators Face Fines

The updated guidelines envision fines for clubs that endorse illegal betting companies. Additionally, repeat offenders risk points deductions, potentially jeopardizing their league efforts.

Overall, the TFF sought a tiered system that would penalize violators depending on the regularity of their offenses. First-time violators, for example, will have to pay a fine of TRY 2 million (approximately $58,400). Soccer clubs that repeat the breach, meanwhile, will have to pay a fine of TRY 5 million ($146,000). Upon a third offense, the fine will be capped at TRY 10 million ($292,000).

Further violations will also incur fines of TRY 10 million but will also carry a three-point deduction from clubs’ current league standings.

The TFF Asked Clubs to Obey the Rules

In an official statement, the TFF reminded its clubs that they should not promote the products of illegal betting organizations in any way. This means that soccer teams are prohibited from featuring such operators in their media, billboard ads and sports equipment.

The TFF elaborated that clubs should not promote entities affiliated with illegal betting organizations either.

The introduction of the new rules comes amid Türkiye’s efforts to crack down on illegal betting. The country prohibited casinos in 1998 and non-state online gambling in 2006 but continues to struggle with digital bad actors that ignore its rules.

Türkiye believes that its citizens spend some $2.9 billion on illegal bets every year.

Türkiye Is Facing Problem Gambling Issues

To make matters worse Türkiye recently reported concerning youth betting rates. According to the latest reports, children as young as 9 are engaging in betting, sparking significant gambling harm concerns.

Yesilay, a prominent Turkish group that works to stop addiction reported a spike in overall gambling addiction as the country continued its uphill battle against illegal sites.

While Türkiye has been working hard to keep illegal online operators away, the dynamic nature of the digital market has made it nigh impossible to keep Turkish players from accessing newly popping sites.