SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
The PGA TOUR has made a significant commitment to sports betting integrity by entering a partnership with the Coalition of Responsible Sports Betting Advertising.
Focusing on ensuring responsible practices within sports betting advertising, the coalition was formed by the NFL and FOX in 2023. Other members include the MLB, NASCAR, NBA, WNBA, NHL, and NBC Sports.
Scott Warfield, Vice President of Gaming at the PGA TOUR, commented: “With the proliferation of sports betting in the United States, the PGA TOUR remains committed to establishing a safe and healthy marketplace for consumers.”
Overall, the coalition and its members aim to limit advertising only to adults of legal betting age and avoid the promotion of excessive gambling.
A joint statement by the organisation said: “As the legalisation of sports betting spreads nationwide, we feel it is critical to establish guardrails around how sports betting should be advertised to consumers across the United States.
“Each member of the coalition feels a responsibility to ensure sports betting advertising is not only targeted to an appropriate audience but also that the message is thoughtfully crafted and carefully delivered.”
Moreover, the flagship golfing event has also renewed its collaboration with the Leadership Circle of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) – joining other leader organisations.
“The TOUR is proud to stand alongside its fellow sports leagues and network partners on the coalition, as well as with our colleagues at NCPG, in our continued mission to educate fans on the merits of gambling responsibly and the resources available to address problem gambling issues,” Warfield added.
NCPG advocates for reducing the economic and social costs associated with gambling addiction. The TOUR is currently preparing the launch of a cross-platform marketing campaign in support of the NCPG’s Problem Gambling Awareness Month in March.
Keith Whyte, Executive Director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, added: “The PGA TOUR’s continuous investment in responsible gambling and problem gambling education initiatives exemplifies its leadership in navigating the evolving landscape of legalised sports betting with integrity and responsibility.”
