Sports betting ads lack responsible gaming warnings, study reveals
A new study by the University of Bristol has raised concerns about the lack of responsible gaming messages in sports betting ads. Researchers examined 1,353 social media posts from four major sportsbooks, including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and ESPN, and found most omitted warnings or support resources. The findings have put the US gaming industry under scrutiny for its marketing practices. The study focused on posts from these sports betting platforms and found that over 1,000 contained no responsible gaming information. Researchers argued that the constant stream of pro-betting content could push young and vulnerable groups toward risky behaviour. The University of Bristol’s report highlights gaps in self-regulation within the US sports betting industry. While the AGA maintains its code applies only to sponsored posts, critics argue broader protections are needed. The debate now centres on whether stricter government rules could reduce gambling harm.
