Kaiyun Sports, a gambling sponsor, has come under scrutiny for its sponsorship of two English Premier League (EPL) franchises, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace, despite not having a UK gambling license. The Gambling Commission has issued a warning to Nottingham Forest regarding the prominent display of the gambling sponsor on team jerseys. Crystal Palace is also in the same situation, with its players wearing the Kaiyun Sports brand on their team shirts. The UK Gambling Commission spokesperson confirmed that Forest’s association with Kaiyun Sports makes them liable for the offence of advertising unlawful gambling, as Kaiyun has never been issued a gaming license by the regulatory body.
Media reports suggest that Kaiyun’s parent company, TGP Europe, based in the Isle of Man, believes it is operating in compliance with UK gaming laws. The offshore firm claims that since Kaiyun Sports is not available to UK bettors and is not marketed or promoted to them, it is not breaking any laws. However, the sponsorship of Forest and Palace by Kaiyun has raised concerns as it does not comply with the guidelines set forth in football’s new code of conduct regarding gambling sponsorship.
The EPL, the English FA, the Women’s Super League, and the British Horseracing Association recently issued a new “socially responsible” code of conduct for gambling sponsorship. This code consists of four principles aimed at ensuring responsible gambling sponsorship practices. TGP Europe and the two EPL franchises are likely facing scrutiny under the fourth principle, which states that gambling sponsorship deals should not compromise the integrity of UK soccer competitions.
The controversy surrounding Kaiyun Sports’ sponsorship of Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace highlights the importance of adhering to regulations and guidelines set forth by governing bodies in the sports industry. It also raises questions about the compliance of offshore gambling sponsors with UK laws and the potential impact of such sponsorships on the integrity of sports competitions.
In conclusion, the issue of Kaiyun Sports’ sponsorship of Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and compliance in sports sponsorship deals, especially when it comes to gambling sponsors. The involvement of regulatory bodies like the Gambling Commission and the implementation of codes of conduct by various sports organizations are crucial in ensuring that sponsorship deals uphold the integrity of sports competitions and protect consumers from potential harm associated with gambling.