Poland may not rank among the highest countries in gambling activity, yet the pastime remains popular, with about 26 percent of Poles engaging in various forms of betting and gaming, according to a report by Advanced Television. This participation persists despite stringent regulations, which prohibit gambling advertising, including TV commercials, except for sports betting. Regulatory bodies and the government continually seek methods to minimize risks and enhance safety for gamblers.

The key points highlighted in the report are:

? 26 percent of Poles engage in gambling despite strict regulations.

? Gambling ads are banned on TV, except for sports betting.

? Gambling Act of 2009 regulates online gaming and player safety.

? Only sports betting can be advertised on TV.

? LOTTO partners with Ekstraklasa, featuring its logo on uniforms.

? STS sponsors the national football team and multiple clubs.

? Superbet and Fortuna sponsor major football teams and sports events.

Historically, gambling in Poland emerged from traditional games of chance that were integral to the nation’s cultural fabric. Across social classes, activities like card games, dice games, and event betting fostered community and interaction. However, certain games were restricted; for instance, poker and blackjack can only be offered by licensed operators, while cockfighting was banned due to safety concerns. Following World War II, the government intensified regulations, perceiving gambling as a potential societal detriment.

Poland’s gambling act

In 2009, the Polish government enacted the Gambling Act to regulate the online gaming sector and ensure player security. This legislation mandates that online operators obtain licenses and adhere to responsible gaming standards. Although various gambling activities are permissible, advertising is strictly regulated. Sports betting remains the only segment that can be promoted on television during sporting events. Additionally, advertisers must disclose the risks associated with gambling and the consequences of illegal activities.

In the report, Filip Kamiński, an iGaming expert, notes that advertising constraints complicate the promotion of secure payment methods, such as BLIK, which has gained popularity due to its simplicity and security. While these regulations aim to protect consumers, they also limit the dissemination of crucial information about safe payment options to potential players.

Successful collaborations within the gambling sector further illustrate the industry’s integration with sports. The Polish lottery operator, LOTTO, maintains a longstanding partnership with Ekstraklasa, the country’s football league, with the Lotto logo featured on all league clubs’ uniforms. STS, a prominent local bookmaker, sponsors the Polish national football team and several clubs, including Jagiellonia Bia?ystok and Pogoń Szczecin. Additionally, Superbet and Fortuna have secured sponsorships with various teams, including GKS Tychy and Legia Warszawa, respectively.

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