More Gambling Ads Banned in the UK

8.05.2019, 16:35

Following the Monopoly casino game ad, more gambling-related ads were banned in the UK. First, The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) banned Tottenham’s image with William Hill logo in from Twitter feed. Then, Paddy Power ad was banned due to suggesting a self-esteem boost from gambling.

The first example is a bit nuanced. Tottenham tweeted a photo of the team’s starting line-up before a March 5 match. It featured a William Hill logo, as well as Harry Winks and Davinson Sanchez, who are under 25. 

An advertising standard dictates that no celebrities or athletes under 25 can be featured on a gambling ad. The claim is that young celebrities might appeal to children. Tottenham and William Hill have responded. They claimed that the players were included as they were in the starting line-up. Furthermore, the standard in question came into force only on April 1st. Nevertheless, the ban remains intact.

A photo of Tottenham’s line-up for March 5 match was banned, as it featured William Hill logo along with players younger than 25.

Another ban concerns a Paddy Power ad. It features Rhodri Giggs, brother of football manager Ryan Giggs, asking for Champagne and driving a sports car. ASA claims that the ad suggests that it glamorizes gambling. In their view, “the ad implied gambling was a way to achieve financial security and improved self-image.”

Such frequent bans may increase in the future. The UK Gambling Commission has recently announced their plan on reducing gambling harm. Following these rulings, it is evident that the commission and ASA are acting upon it. 

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