A Gambling Sponsorship Hold “Fair Debate” by Football Association of Ireland Updated for July 2025

Updated: 17th July 2025
The Football Association of Ireland is prepared to have a “reasonable dispute” on whether it need to continue partnering gambling companies, however its Chief Executive, John Delaney, has actually chosen not to verify current reports that the body was preparing to cut ties with such companies.
The FAI's sponsorship handle British bookie Ladbrokes is set to end later on this year. The association likewise has actually 2 years left on a sponsorship handle streaming service Trackchamp. Under that continuous collaboration, abroad audiences have the ability to bet on League of Ireland matches.
Current Sponsorship Status as of 2022
As of 2022, the FAI has reevaluated its sponsorship strategy, focusing on diversifying its partnerships. New agreements have been confirmed, shifting some reliance away from gambling-related sponsors.
Current deals include contracts with businesses outside the gaming industry, reflecting an ongoing commitment to aligning with socially responsible practices. This strategic pivot aids in moderating criticism from anti-gambling advocates while preserving the financial stability of the association.
Inning accordance with current reports, the football association was thinking about the possibility to cut ties with gambling companies in the wake of growing pressure from political leaders and anti-gambling companies about the damages of sponsorship offers including betting and gaming operators.
Reacting to the just recently emerged speculations about FAI's reported strategy, Mr. Delaney informed regional media that a reasonable dispute will be hung on the matter later on this year which the dispute will at first be performed internally. The authorities further explained that more information must be expected after those internal conversations happen.
Sponsorship Funds Benefit League of Ireland Clubs
In his remarks, Mr. Delaney likewise indicated that while funds are originating from gambling funds, they are directed to League of Ireland clubs in addition to various favorable causes. Dropping sponsorships would imply that a crucial profits stream would be dropped, the FAI leader went on to state.
Impact of Past Sponsorship Changes
Changes in sponsorship have necessitated financial adjustments for the League of Ireland clubs. While initial transitions posed challenges, many clubs have successfully sought alternative sponsorships and funding to maintain operations.
This shift has encouraged clubs to innovate, potentially increasing local business partnerships. These movements reveal a positive long-term adaptation to reduced gambling-linked revenue streams, supporting both ethical alignment and economic sustainability.
To reduce any unfavorable effects for the association, the football clubs and the other recipients of the gambling sponsorship offers, the FAI will planning to make an educated option, Mr. Delaney exposed. The executive guaranteed media that they would offer more info about their choice as soon as one is made.
Reports about FAI possibly severing ties with gambling sponsors emerged after the Gaelic Athletic Association voted previously this year to prohibit all such sponsorship offers, arguing that Irish sport was besieged by gambling which a restriction on gambling sponsorship would safeguard the stability of Gaelic video games.
Comparison with Other Associations
Similar policies by associations like the English Football Association and the Scottish FA have seen varying outcomes. The English FA ended its sponsorship with Ladbrokes in 2017, focusing instead on health-related partnerships.
This strategic redirection aligns with public sentiment advocating reduced gambling promotion. The Scottish FA has examined sponsorship impacts, also recognising the need to maintain funding balance whilst addressing ethical concerns.
The FAI's approach reflects a broader trend, underscoring its position among peers making similar ethical considerations.
Ireland's President, Michael D. Higgins, just recently required the application of a restriction on gambling adverts in sport, however his remarks dealt with a heavy reaction from the market.
The Chair of the Irish Bookmakers Association mentioned that any such move would hinder a “accountable market” from offering its clients with sufficient services which through marketing operators can effectively assist individuals for whom gambling has actually ended up being a concern.
Marketing restriction conversations emerged in Ireland as Italy is getting ready for the January 2019 execution of a blanket restriction on gambling marketing, following the effective passage of the so-called Dignity Decree.
The piece of legislation was presented and led by Italian Deputy Minister Luigi Di Maio as a step versus the expansion of gambling in the nation and the direct exposure of young and susceptible individuals to gaming and betting services.
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