The UK government plans to prohibit unlicensed gambling firms from sponsoring sports teams, including Premier League clubs. This crackdown follows concerns about companies operating outside regulatory safeguards. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy announced the forthcoming consultation, targeting operators that bypass UK gambling laws.

TGP Europe, which sponsored Bournemouth, Fulham, Newcastle, Wolves and Burnley, prompted the action after surrendering its license. The Gambling Commission found the firm failed proper checks and breached anti-money laundering rules. Clubs received warnings they may face prosecution for promoting unlicensed gambling businesses.

While Premier League teams will remove gambling sponsors from shirt fronts this season, sleeve placements remain permitted. The government argues unlicensed sponsorship gives non-regulated companies a major presence in football, potentially driving consumers toward sites without proper protections. The commission estimates 1.4 million UK adults have gambling problems.