“Following the ruling by the Supreme Court, clubs now know that advertising betting houses is the same as advertising drugs, because both are illegal in Chile,” Cecilia Valdés asserted in an interview.
In a joint statement, 13 clubs (Cobresal, Limache, Coquimbo, Unión San Felipe, Unión La Calera, Everton, Audax Italiano, Palestino, O’Higgins, Ñublense, Huachipato, Deportes Concepción, and Universidad de Concepción) questioned the statement and others made by critics arguing that they were exaggerated.
“We regret the exaggerated interpretations in some media, such as the statements from the Association of Casinos of Chile, equating the advertising of regulated platforms with criminal activities like drug trafficking. These comparisons are not only inaccurate but also undermine a debate that requires a high level of vision and focus on collective solutions,” the clubs stated.
Several betting establishments are involved in Chilean football. The clubs are advocating for the legitimacy of their sponsorship agreements with these betting firms.
“We have specialized advice confirming that these agreements are valid and aligned with global practices, where online gaming platforms sponsor sporting events, competitions, and media around the world—including TV channels, radio, and news outlets in Chile,” they argued.
In the document, the clubs also warned about the risks that a total ban on this advertising would pose to national sports. “In similar regional contexts, sports associations have defended these sponsorships against legislative initiatives seeking to ban advertising on jerseys and broadcasts, warning about the risk of competitive and social disadvantage it could create. In Chile, a restrictive interpretation could exacerbate analogous challenges, leaving the sports ecosystem at an absolute disadvantage on a continental and global level,” they added.
Beyond the economic aspect, the institutions emphasized the social role they fulfil arguing that they also promote responsible gambling. “The clubs are not part of the problem; we are part of the solution. Through transversal campaigns for responsible gaming and community programs, funded in part by these sponsorships, we contribute to the integral development of youth, promoting values such as discipline and teamwork,” they stated.
The statement comes after Chile’s Supreme Court accepted a protection request filed by the Lotería de Concepción. The Court ordered the major telecommunications companies— Claro, Entel, GTD, Movistar, WOM, and VTR —to immediately block all online gambling websites.
Source: G3 Newswire
