As the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics approach, Italian Minister of Sport Andrea Abodi has submitted a new "Sports Decree," allocating 64.5 million euros for the modernization of national sports facilities. This funding will be distributed through the "Sports and Suburbs Fund," and will be used for event organization, security, venue renovation, and combating match-fixing.
Although the decree does not mention gambling advertising policies, the industry is focused on whether it implies a relaxation of the "Dignity Decree." This decree has completely banned gambling advertising and sports sponsorships since 2018, with a reassessment not expected until at least September 2025.
Some officials believe that moderately easing the ban could not only curb the black market but also bring financial revenue to support national sports development. Data shows that during the 2024 Paris Olympics, global betting amounts reached 11 billion euros, a 20% increase from the previous games. This provides a new economic argument for Italian legislators.
Furthermore, Italy will announce a new iGaming license policy in September, with application fees soaring from 200,000 euros to 7 million euros, which has sparked widespread attention in the industry. Currently, 46 operators have been listed as qualified applicants.
