Tabcorp penalised after Commission investigation

Business News

The betting firm involved in last year’s “piegate” incident has had its licence to offer gambling in Britain reviewed by the Gambling Commission.

The Commission’s investigations revealed that Tabcorp UK Limited, trading as Sunbets, failed to properly manage the risks associated with offering ‘novelty’ bets. During the Commission’s investigation it also became apparent that Tabcorp had allowed more than 100 self-excluded customers to open duplicate accounts and gamble.

Richard Watson, Gambling Commission programme director, said: “Vulnerable customers were able to gamble with Tabcorp UK, despite choosing to self-exclude. This is not acceptable. Gambling firms must ensure the systems they have in place are protecting their customers effectively.”

He added: “Novelty betting markets, such as the market Tabcorp UK offered on last year’s FA Cup tie between Sutton United v Arsenal, may seem like a bit of fun but the consequences were serious – with the potential to encourage someone to commit a criminal act or breach a sports governing bodies’ rules.”

All operators are advised to read Tabcorp UK public statement for further details and lessons to be learned.

As part of today’s penalty package, Tabcorp UK is to have new conditions attached to its gambling licence and pay £84,000 to socially responsible causes.

RECOMMENDED