Opposition Warns of Advertising Circumvention Risk in Bulgaria Gambling Reforms

Assen Vassilev, chairman of opposition party We Continue the Change (PP), has called for further amendments to Bulgaria’s proposed gambling reforms to prevent operators from evading a planned near-total advertising ban. The reforms presented by Prime Minister Rumen Radev would prohibit gambling marketing, including affiliate marketing, and ban the promotion of gambling trademarks through any communication channel.

Trademark Definition Gap

The definition of a gambling trademark requires expansion to cover brands linked to or closely resembling those of licensed operators. Absent broader language, companies could launch alternative brands that sustain visibility while meeting the technical terms of the law. One example cited is that operator efbet could promote efbetnews.

Vassilev further recommends restrictions on advertising at outdoor sports venues sponsored by gambling companies. He also points to the United States model in which banks and card issuers block payments to unlicensed online gambling operators.

European Precedents

Vassilev’s position rests on developments elsewhere in Europe. After Belgium banned gambling sponsorship in sports in January 2025, operators shifted to foundations and media sites. Club Brugge adopted U-Experts branding. Standard Liège and Antwerp used Circus Daily, a sports news website owned by operator Circus.

Italy saw comparable activity after the Dignity Decree (Law No. 96/2018) took effect in July 2018. Serie A clubs maintained partnerships with platforms tied to gambling brands. Bulgaria’s proposed changes remain under public consultation until October 23, according to reporting by Focus Gaming News.

Reporting: Focus Gaming News

Generated by SCCG’s automated editorial system from published source reporting. SCCG Management holds editorial responsibility.