Ladbrokes faces EU probe over Belgium operations

The European Commission has opened up an investigation into Ladbrokes concerning virtual betting in Belgium and whether the right granted to them is in line with EU state aid rules

The whole issue started after two other operators complained because Ladbrokes was awarded the right to operate digital betting kiosks in stores from 2014 and online from 2015. However, other operators were denied the right to do so in 2015 and 2016.  

Ladbrokes has a large presence in Belgium with a retail estate in excess of 300 shops. Tessa Curtis was just recently appointed Head of Media Relations at GVC Holdings and for the the EU investigation now adds to other problems with GVC like the leaving of long time CEO Kenny Alexander in an untimely fashion while being subjected to an ongoing investigation by the tax authorities in the UK. 

There is no response yet from GVC Holdings corporate site concerning the news of the EU investigation.  

A spokesperson from the EU commenting on the investigation said: “The commission has concerns that the authorisation granted to Ladbrokes may have resulted in the betting company enjoying a de facto exclusive right to operate virtual betting in Belgium since 2014, without any remuneration in favour of the Belgian state by Ladbrokes in return.” 

The EU spokesperson added: “The commission has doubts that it complies with EU state aid rules.” 

About SiGMA Europe - Malta

SiGMA Group has announced the postponement of its Europe summit, which was planned to be held in Malta on 17-19 November 2020. The show will now open its doors early next year in February, running from the 16-18th, making it the first event to headline the 2021 gaming calendar.