Gambling ads tripled during Premier League's opening weekend

New research reveals a sharp rise in gambling adverts during the Premier League’s opening weekend, nearly tripling compared to last year.

Over 29,000 betting messages were recorded, a 165% increase. West Ham’s match against Aston Villa saw around 6,500 gambling-related ads, equating to about 30 messages per minute.

The University of Bristol report, funded by Gamble Aware, criticises the gambling industry’s self-regulation efforts as "wholly inadequate."

It warns that the rise in advertising puts fans, particularly children, at greater risk.

Peter Shilton, former England goalkeeper and recovering gambling addict, echoed these concerns, calling for government intervention, stating the industry is "out of control."

The Betting and Gaming Council defended its practices, arguing the research misrepresents both advertising and regulations.

They highlighted their efforts in promoting safer gambling, committing 20% of advertising to responsible gambling messages.

The Premier League recently introduced a Code of Conduct to address gambling agreements, while the government is reviewing gambling policies to strengthen protections for vulnerable individuals.