Swedish Gaming regulator Spelinspektionen has reprimanded casino and sports betting operator Betsson after breaking match betting rules.
Rule Violation Bets Banned in Sweden
During a top-tier football match between Malmo FF and IF Elfsborg in May 2021, the operator had taken bets on foul penalties which goes against the Swedish betting rules. Bettors are not permitted to place wagers on rule violations including red/yellow card warnings and penalties.The amended set of regulations, reviewed in 2020 is designed to prevent match-fixing and counter manipulation, although Betsson denies this happened, moreover, they denied any violation against the Swedish regulator’s rules, citing the match in question was a combination game.Nevertheless, the regulator ruled against the assertion and said, “Betsson Nordic Ltd has offered betting on penalties for violating the rules of a football match which is not permitted in connection with a match, competition or tournament. “The Swedish Gaming inspectorate does not consider that the betting has only been offered as part of a combination game makes any difference.”Upon the ruling, the game in question was declared void, and Betsson return all turnover to the tune of SEK 3,000 ($343).
No Further Action Taken
Betsson has now disengaged from the third party who offered the bets and is actively taking preventative measures to ensure this does not happen again. After hearing this the regulator deemed no further action necessary.This is not the first time Betsson has felt the wrath of the Spelinspektionen, back in 2020 the regulator alleged Betsson sold vouchers at Pressbyran and 7-Eleven providing games through unregistered gaming agents. However, in June 2021, an appeals court dismissed the violation, citing the sale of vouchers did not constitute the sale of gambling products, receipt of bets, or mediation of winnings.