PFA admit 'growing concern' over gambling addiction among players despite game-wide ban

Players’ union bosses have admitted gambling addiction is a “growing concern” within the game. midfielder Lucas Paqueta could face a life ban as he awaits the outcome of an FA hearing into spot-fixing charges.

Mirror Sport reported on former striker while top flight clubs have agreed to scrap front-of-shirt gambling deals by the 2026/27 season.

The Professional Footballers’ Association of Northern Ireland has now partnered with software provider Gamban which blocks the use of gambling. There is a game-wide ban on gambling across players, clubs and staff at all levels while the PFA believes there is an acute issue with players using on phones and devices.

Northern Ireland PFA chief executive Michael Carvill said: “As the representative body for professional footballers in Northern Ireland, we are committed to supporting our members both on and off the pitch.

“Gambling addiction is a growing concern within football and this partnership with Gamban is a significant step in providing practical help to those who need it.”

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Melissa Etherington, Partnerships Executive at Gamban, said: “Gambling addiction is a growing issue in football, which impacts mental health, finances and a player’s performance on the pitch.

“It also has the potential to impact sports integrity. We are delighted to partner with PFA NI to raise awareness of Gamban among those most at risk from harms related to online gambling.”

This initiative forms part of PFA NI’s broader commitment to player welfare, offering educational resources, confidential support, and mental health assistance to members who may be struggling with gambling issues.

Gamban’s blocks access to gambling websites and apps across multiple devices. The PFA NI says it aims to protect players from the risks of gambling addiction and ensure they have the necessary tools to take control of their well-being.

The Premier League announced that betting sponsors would be banned back in April 2023. A statement at the time read: "Premier League clubs have collectively agreed to withdraw gambling sponsorship from the front of clubs’ matchday shirts, becoming the first sports league in the UK to take such a measure voluntarily in order to reduce gambling advertising.

"The announcement follows an extensive consultation involving the League, its clubs and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport as part of the Government’s ongoing review of current gambling legislation.

"The Premier League is also working with other sports on the development of a new code for responsible gambling sponsorship.

"To assist clubs with their transition away from shirt-front gambling sponsorship, the collective agreement will begin at the end of the 2025/26 season."

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