The Belgium Gaming Commission reminds gambling operators of bonus, advertising restrictions in run-up to 2026 football World Cup. Operators are referred to existing rules under Articles 60 and 61 of the Belgian Gambling Act by the notice, dated 20 May 2026.
Reaffirmed Ban on Bonuses
The Belgium Gaming Commission stated that operators will need to abide by Article 60 of the Belgian Gambling Act with World Cup betting activity on the horizon. The provision bans bonuses that are designed to influence gambling behaviour or to recruit or retain players. The reminder includes free game participation, playing credit and any other benefit in any form. The regulator referred the operators to information on the application of Article 60 published on 20 September 2024.
The Commission’s message reinforces that promotional incentives remain a compliance focus as the tournament approaches. Operators must compare their offers to the legal definition of a prohibited bonus. The warning is about benefits that could draw people into playing or keep them playing. The reminder was issued as part of the regulator’s efforts to stop unauthorised practices from reaching potential players.
Advertising Rules Under Tight Scrutiny
The Commission also pointed operators towards Article 61 which prohibits gambling advertising unless it is expressly allowed. The relevant exceptions are laid down in the Royal Decree of 27 February 2023. The regulator said concrete application cases have been described on its website under the “KB reclame” section. Operators were encouraged to consult that material when assessing their advertising activity.
The control service will be on the lookout for potential players who are subjected to pratices that are prohibited by Belgian law. The commission uregetly called for compliance with relevant legal requirements. It said it was counting on the responsibility of operators to protect vulnerable and young players. The notice also ties compliance to maintaining a level playing field in the gambling market.
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