Lithuanian inspection of Betsson ends with no fine

(PRESS RELEASE) -- The Gaming Supervisory Authority has completed the inspection of the gaming company “Lošimu strategine grupe” for unauthorized advertising – the use of the betting trademark in the name of the Lithuanian Basketball League “Betsson-LKL”. While the inspection was still ongoing, the company voluntarily eliminated the violation. Therefore, on 22 January, the LPT decided not to impose a fine or other sanctions.

On 2 July 2025, the Gambling Law changed, and the name of the gambling organizer can no longer be used in the names of sports clubs, leagues or other sponsored entities. However, after this date, the Betsson trademark was still used in the name of the Lithuanian Basketball League. Therefore, the LPT launched an inspection for unauthorized gambling advertising.

After the inspection began, the "Gaming Strategic Group" took into account the LPT consultation and eliminated the violation. The name of the Lithuanian Basketball League began to be published clearly separating the name of the sponsor - "LKL, sponsored by Betsson". In addition, the registration of the trademark "Betsson LKL" was canceled, it is no longer published.

As there were no violations remaining by the end of the inspection, the supervision objectives were achieved. LPT follows the principle of minimal and proportionate supervision: sanctions are applied only when the supervision objectives cannot be achieved in any other way. Furthermore, these measures must be proportionate to the nature of the violation and the damage caused. Taking into account this principle and the company's efforts to eliminate the violation, LPT decided that it was no longer appropriate to apply sanctions.

LPT points out that the use of bookmaker logos in the name of a club or league is considered advertising, which is prohibited. The law allows the name or trademark of the bookmaker to be displayed on stands near the pitch or on athletes' shirts. It is also allowed to inform about the sponsorship of a club or league, for example: "football club A, which is sponsored by betting company B" - such a sentence without the use of logos is not considered gambling advertising.

The additional restrictions on gambling advertising that came into effect on July 1 are aimed at reducing the accessibility of gambling and the harm it causes to society. This is a transitional period before a complete ban on gambling advertising that will come into effect in 2028.

LPT has consistently provided consultations on the upcoming changes, and this work will continue after they come into force. Since March, 5 meetings have been held with market participants and other interested parties. In addition, 45 individual consultations have been provided. Systematized information and answers to frequently asked questions have also been published on the LPT website.

In July, after the changes had already entered into force, the LPT continued consultations on the application of these changes in practice. After 1 July, more than 190 individual consultations were provided. When possible violations were noted, reminders were sent and suggestions were made to provide more information on how to adapt to the changes.