Bangladesh Steps Up Crackdown on Gambling — Even Football Feels the Impact
Following the decision to block all gambling websites, the government of Bangladesh issued a new cybersecurity directive.
Gambling Under Strict Prohibition
According to Section 20 of the new directive, gambling and all related activities are officially declared illegal. The ban includes:
- Creating websites and apps for gambling
- Promoting or advertising gambling
- Participating in gambling
Violators face up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $82,000, or both.
As part of the anti-gambling campaign, authorities have already blocked over 1,000 mobile banking accounts linked to gambling and launched criminal cases against 1,100 agents. According to Sections 21 and 22, all financial transactions related to gambling are prohibited.
Officials consider such measures a solution to the growing problem of online gambling.
Football Also Caught Up
The gambling scandal has even affected major football. VfB Stuttgart, one of the top clubs in German football, came under the spotlight a day before the German Cup final against Arminia Bielefeld.
VfB had prepared a special kit for the final, sold to fans for €110, but on match day, the team was forced to change the kit design. The reason — legal issues with sponsor Winamax, a French bookmaker.
Reasons for VfB Stuttgart’s Kit Change
According to the club’s official statement:
- Winamax failed to meet its contractual obligations — owed €2.5 million
- Attempts to reach an agreement were unsuccessful
- VfB decided to replace Winamax with a new sponsor — Landesbank Baden-Württemberg (LBBW)
On the field in Berlin, VfB players appeared with the LBBW logo on their chests — made possible by a swift deal with the bank. Moreover, LBBW promised to cover any potential legal costs the club might face.
Compensation for Fans
For fans who bought the kit with the Winamax logo, VfB Stuttgart promised compensation. As stated by the club’s head of marketing, Ruven Kasper:
“We will contact all jersey buyers next week and express our gratitude to them.”
What Do Bangladesh’s Measures and VfB’s Story Have in Common?
Both situations show how strict gambling policies affect not only criminals but also reputable football clubs. Bans and legal disputes with bookmakers are a new reality for sports and society.
Table: Key Measures and Consequences
| Country / Event | Measures | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Bangladesh | Gambling ban, account blocks, criminal cases | Up to 2 years in prison, fine up to $82K, 1,100 agents under investigation |
| VfB Stuttgart | Rejected bookmaker sponsor, kit change before final | Legal dispute, logo replacement, fan compensation |
Conclusion: The fight against gambling is going global, impacting both legal and illegal domains. From Bangladesh to Germany — scrutiny of bookmakers and their role in sports is increasing.