German addiction commissioner voices World Cup betting ads concerns

Germany's government commissioner for drug and addiction policy is concerned about an expected rise of sports betting adverts during broadcasts from the upcoming football World Cup.

Commissioner Hendrik Streeck also told dpa that the football must not be a gateway to a gambling addiction via illegal channels.

The World Cup takes place June 11-July 19 in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The number of sports betting ads is expected to rise even further compared to the regular season and one company, Betano, is also an official partner of the ruling body FIFA.

“The problem arises when football, emotion and betting become so closely intertwined that young people in particular get the impression that betting is simply part of the game," Streeck warned.

"Sports betting is not a harmless thrill. It can be addictive.”

Streeck said that around 1.23 million people in Germany between the age of 18 and 70 have a gambling disorder.

“There is no precise figure for sports betting alone, as many of those affected engage in several forms of gambling. What is clear, however, is that sports betting – and live betting in particular – carries a particularly high risk,” he said.

Streeck highlighted the risks of the illegal gambling market where he said that "protective regulations often only exist on paper or not at all.

"Young people find it easier to access gambling services, at-risk gamblers are not effectively barred, and betting limits are not enforced," he said.

“Anyone who takes player protection seriously must take a firm stand against illegal betting sites. Football should be a passion. It must not become a gateway to gambling addiction.”