The Dutch gambling authority, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has announced heightened supervision of betting advertising and product offerings ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The regulator warned licence‑holders on Tuesday that any breaches of its gambling laws would be met with swift enforcement actions, emphasising the protection of vulnerable groups and compliance with strict advertising rules.
In a recent letter sent to domestic operators, the KSA reiterated existing prohibitions, including a ban on untargeted advertising and tight limits on sports sponsorship.
The regulator also reminded operators that certain micro‑bet markets, including bets on which player will receive the first yellow card or which team will take the first corner, are not permitted under Dutch law.
It further emphasised that violations will result in “immediate enforcement action”.
The current Dutch coalition government recently published plans to fully ban gambling advertisements, while comparing gambling itself to sex work in the country.
Illegal operators and protecting young people
The regulator also pledged prompt punitive measures against illegal operators and those promoting unlicensed services. Additionally, the campaign will target raising awareness about the risks of sports betting among young people.
Gambling ads were restricted in July 2023, with specific outlines ensuring that targeting advertising was not shown to those under 24. A recent study however found that 31 of 277 Meta adverts (11.2%) targeted age groups including those aged 18 to 23.
“KSA points out, among other things, the ban on untargeted advertising and sports sponsorship,” the authority stated.
Gambling sponsorship was part of the 2023 reforms, with a complete cessation from 2025.
The World Cup effect
Michel Groothuizen, chairman of the KSA, explained the heightened focus as a response to the predictable surge in gambling during major international tournaments.
“We saw at the 2022 World Cup and 2024 European Championship that gambling increased. This makes it attractive for companies to attract new players during that period,” he said, adding: “While I understand this, I strongly urge providers to remain mindful of the protection of young adults and other vulnerable groups, and to adhere to the applicable rules. If we observe that this is not happening, we will take immediate action.”
The Netherlands is not the only country keeping a finger on the pulse of the World Cup’s impact. Indonesia, where all forms of gambling in person or online is banned, have warned fans away from sports betting.
This comes after worries that illegal online gambling operators fleeing a Cambodian crackdown have settled in Indonesia. National Police spokesperson Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko warned that although “we must jointly anticipate football gambling … we must not allow this momentum to be exploited for illegal activities that could cause losses”.
Kathryn Evans
Kathryn covers bitesize breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and US legislation. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – long before Hollywood came calling.
Original article: https://igamingbusiness.com/legal-compliance/compliance/ksa-emphasises-compliance-licence-holders-2026-world-cup/
