Gambling advertisements involving Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton and Chelsea Football Club have been banned in the UK due to concerns about their potential influence on children. This decision was announced by the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) following complaints and subsequent investigations.
Two betting firms, Kwiff and Betway, were identified in the ruling. Betway’s advertisement on YouTube featured fans wearing Chelsea-branded clothing, while Kwiff promoted the British Grand Prix through a post on social media platform X, showcasing Hamilton’s image. Both firms received warnings against using characters likely to appeal to audiences under the age of 18.
The BBC has reached out to both betting companies, as well as Hamilton’s team and Chelsea Football Club, for their responses to the ruling. In its decision regarding Kwiff, the ASA highlighted a complaint from a University of Bristol researcher, who expressed concerns that the content might attract under-18 viewers. The advertisement included a reference to a “huge weekend” at the British Grand Prix, along with an age restriction symbol and the BeGambleAware.org logo.
Kwiff argued that data suggested Hamilton’s appeal was primarily to an older demographic. The firm noted that the post was intended to direct traffic to their blog, which contained editorial content distinct from their gambling services. Following the ruling, Kwiff removed content featuring prominent athletes from its social media platforms.
Regarding Betway’s advertisement, the ASA ruled that YouTube was not an appropriate channel, as it could not ensure that viewers were all over 18. The ASA pointed out that many users might not provide their real ages when registering. Betway claimed it had the right to use Chelsea’s logo as their official betting partner and referenced YouTube’s policies designed to protect against youth exposure to age-restricted material. The company also expressed concern that banning their advertisement could negatively impact gambling sponsorships in sports.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c87413n7wj1o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss