TLDR
- Argentina introduced a bill to restrict online gambling ads aimed at children and teenagers across TV, radio, social media, and apps
- The bill would ban athletes, influencers, and cartoons from being used to promote gambling to young people
- Ads linking gambling to success or achievement would also be prohibited under the proposal
- A separate bill in Buenos Aires Province seeks to ban gambling sponsorships on football club jerseys and at sporting venues
- Major betting firms like Betsson, Betano, and Sportsbet already sponsor top Argentine football clubs including Boca Juniors and River Plate
Argentina is moving to crack down on online gambling advertisements that target minors. A new amendment bill has been introduced in the country’s House of Representatives aimed at protecting children and teenagers from exposure to betting content.
The bill was submitted by National Deputy Karina Banfi. It proposes changes to two existing laws — the Audiovisual Communication Services Law and the Comprehensive Protection of the Rights of Children and Adolescents Law.
The legislation would place restrictions on gambling ads across a wide range of platforms. These include television, radio, outdoor advertising, websites, apps, and social media networks.
One of the key provisions would ban the use of child-friendly characters, athletes, influencers, and cartoons in gambling promotions. Public figures who appeal to young audiences would also be barred from appearing in betting advertisements.
The bill goes further by targeting the messaging used in gambling ads. Any advertisement that links betting to personal, financial, or social success would be prohibited.
Proposed Rules Target Sports and Education Ties
Gambling promotions connected to education, sports organizations, or achievements and awards would also be banned under the proposed rules. The bill describes gambling addiction as a compulsive desire to gamble regardless of losses and the damage it causes.
According to the proposal, this addiction leads to the progressive deterioration of various aspects of everyday life. The amendment reflects growing concern in Argentina about rising gambling problems among young people.
Several provinces across the country have already moved to strengthen measures against youth gambling through illegal betting platforms. The rapid expansion of online betting operators has made gambling-related advertisements increasingly common.
Sponsorship deals in Argentine football have raised questions about whether minors are being exposed to too much betting content. Betting companies have formed partnerships with many of the country’s top football clubs.
Betsson currently sponsors Boca Juniors and Racing Club. Betano sponsors River Plate, while Sportsbet is partnered with Independiente.
Casino de Buenos Aires Online is sponsoring San Lorenzo FC. These deals mean betting brands are displayed on club jerseys seen by millions of fans, including children.
Buenos Aires Province Pushes Separate Gambling Ad Ban
A separate but related bill has been proposed by Buenos Aires Senator Malena Galmarini. Her legislation targets gambling ads and sponsorships at sporting and community events within Buenos Aires Province.
The bill would make it illegal to display betting sponsors’ names and logos on sports club jerseys. It would also prohibit gambling advertising within 100 meters of sports venues.
Naming stadiums after betting firms would be banned as well. The measure is designed to reduce gambling exposure in places frequently visited by children, teenagers, and families.
Galmarini has stated the bill does not aim to outlaw gambling operations entirely. The focus is specifically on limiting where and how betting companies can advertise.
Enforcement of these restrictions would fall to provincial and municipal authorities. They would receive technical support from the Provincial Institute of Lotteries and Casinos.
