Italy prepares to enforce gambling advertising bans on visiting football clubs

Italian authorities are preparing to enforce strict advertising bans on gambling companies during sporting events, potentially impacting foreign clubs playing in Italy. Under the ‘Decreto Dignità’, all forms of direct and indirect advertising for games involving cash prizes are prohibited, including on jerseys, LED panels, and pitch-side signage.

The Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (Customs and Monopolies Agency) is expected to request that UEFA block the display of logos from unauthorized betting sponsors on the kits of visiting teams in European competitions. If these requests are not met, authorities may intervene by seizing jerseys directly on the pitch.

Several clubs participating in upcoming matches are expected to face these restrictions, including Club Brugge, Shakhtar Donetsk, Sporting Lisbon, and Slovan Bratislava. While some operators like Betsson may avoid issues if they are authorized in Italy, the enforcement of AGCOM guidelines remains a significant logistical concern for international matches held on Italian soil.