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The Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) has handed out seven warnings to operators who have violated its advertising regulations.

Infractions were often accidental: one operator advertised on a “pace car” for a motorsport event that drove away after the event on the public road with the advertisement still displayed. “Car advertising,” wrote the KSA, “ is a form of untargeted advertising and is prohibited.”

When contacted after the event, the provider agreed immediately to comply, according to the KSA. 

The Netherlands banned all forms of so called untargeted advertising last summer, in part as a response to growing political angst over the proliferation of gambling in general.

Another of the seven warnings involved an advertisement for a brick and mortar arcade, which appeared at a gym that catered to young people. The warning was handed out due to the age group that frequented the gym. 

The other warnings concerned who was being used to promote gambling. One ad featured an actor and animated characters. “The KSA believes that these are role models and, moreover, cartoon and animation figures that primarily appeal to a young target group.”

The rest of the warnings involved Formula 1 racing. Advertisers misused Formula 1 superstar Max Verstappen, the KSA said, even though they did not reproduce his image in their advertisements.

“They did not use a direct image of the driver, but hinted at Verstappen using puns and visual elements to promote the offer,” the regulator said.

The KSA’s warnings do not come with fines, but after another infraction “a heavier sanction may follow”.

The KSA’s Supervisory Agenda for 2025 includes addressing risks around minors and young adults, supervision of duty of care, and combating illegal supply and advertisement. 

Advertising remains part of the authority's agenda because the number of violations remains "high", it said.

There is now a ban on sponsoring TV programmes and events. As of July 1 this year, sponsoring teams, clubs, competitions and advertising on jerseys will also be prohibited.  

“It is the responsibility of gambling providers to adhere to the applicable advertising rules at all times,” the KSA warned. “Even if other parties are involved in the advertising, such as purchasing agencies. The KSA will issue additional guidelines on some of the advertising rules in the spring of 2025.”