Sports Betting’s Growing Influence and the Fight Against Illegal Operators

The ubiquity of sports betting and online casino advertisements has become an intrinsic part of the sports viewing experience. Whether it’s a Betway Premiership game, a Springbok test match, an English Premier League fixture featuring Arsenal, or a Betway SA20 cricket match, sports fans are greeted with promotions for betting platforms and casino games. Over time, this has seamlessly integrated into daily life, becoming almost expected during sporting events.

The sports betting and online casino industry has experienced rapid expansion, particularly since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. This growth has captured a diverse audience that cuts across race and gender lines, achieving a staggering 40% year-on-year increase between 2019 and 2023. This burgeoning sector has significantly bolstered the South African economy, contributing hundreds of millions of Rand and creating employment opportunities for thousands of people.

The accessibility of sports betting platforms has made gambling more convenient, marking a departure from the image of older generations frequenting traditional casinos. The ability to place bets directly from a smartphone represents not only the present but also the future of gambling. However, this ease of access has also invited challenges, with illegal betting operations surging to capitalize on the “online betting boom.” These unauthorized operators often promise attractive odds and promotions but operate without licenses, neglect age verification for customers, and exploit unsuspecting bettors. Furthermore, they evade paying taxes to SARS, resulting in significant revenue losses for the state and negatively affecting local economies.

Sean Coleman, CEO of the South African Bookmakers Association, highlighted the severity of the issue:

“The South African Gambling Industry is facing an online, illegal gambling ‘pandemic.’ Over 16 million South African citizens are gambling on illegal sites resulting in R55 billion in GGR going offshore. Apart from the obvious loss in taxation revenue to the fiscus, players are directly exposed to gambling harm and have no ability to self-exclude. We need to get this ‘pandemic’ under control.”

Unlike illegal operators, regulated entities contribute significantly to the economy and abide by established rules. They also invest heavily in corporate social responsibility initiatives, creating a positive impact on local communities. For example, the Betway Cares Foundation has been instrumental in various community projects, including supporting water initiatives in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, developing multi-purpose sports facilities, organizing community clean-up campaigns, and assisting South African athletes and artists who have achieved global recognition.

The foundation has also championed women’s sports and launched programs like the Betway 12th Man, which equips retired athletes with new skills for their post-sports careers. Betway continuously collaborates with the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture to deliver impactful programs.

In addition, Betway and other regulated operators support the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation, which has treated over 20,000 individuals for gambling addiction in the past two decades. Executive Director Sibongile Simelane-Quntana emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts:

“The foundation’s mandate is to prioritize the well-being of gamblers and their families by leading advocacy and raising awareness about responsible gambling. Collaborating with Betway and the PSL during National Responsible Gambling Month is part of our effort to highlight not only the potential risks of problem gambling but also the availability of free support services, such as counselling and treatment, for those facing gambling addiction.”

During a press conference held as part of Responsible Gambling Month, Betway CEO Laurence Michel reiterated the company’s commitment to fostering responsible betting practices.

“As proud title sponsors of the Betway Premiership, we continue to act on our responsibility as a leading global sports betting brand, to educate our customers and the South African public about responsible gambling. Through our partnership with the PSL, Betway remains committed to its objective of encouraging responsible gambling across all its platforms. We therefore reiterate our messaging of Bet Responsibly to all football fans and our customers during November and beyond.”

The rise in online gambling accounts brings with it an increased risk of problem gambling. Many South Africans, grappling with socio-economic challenges, see sports betting and online casino games as a potential way to improve their circumstances. However, it is crucial to approach betting responsibly. Newcomers are advised to treat gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a means of financial gain, spending only what they can afford to lose.

Regulated operators like Betway continue to make a substantial economic contribution to South Africa while positively impacting communities through numerous initiatives. Their efforts not only add excitement to sports but also demonstrate a strong commitment to the well-being of the nation.

By fLEXI tEAM