The United Kingdom’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) sustained a judgment against Festival Free Bets concerning a promotion featuring online personality Astrid Wett. The problem originated from Wett’s age when the advertisement was published (March 12, 2024) – she was just 23, not meeting the promotional rules for wagering services.
These regulations state that persons below 25 (or those seeming to be under 25) cannot hold significant parts in gambling promotions unless placing bets can be done right through the advertisement itself. Wett’s promotion, displayed on her X (previously Twitter) account, presented her at the Cheltenham Festival horse racing function endorsing Festival Free Bets.
Although Wett expressed regret for the lapse, explaining she was oblivious to the age requirement and thought being over 18 was adequate, Festival Free Bets failed to address the ASA’s questions. The ASA voiced worry about this absence of communication, considering it negligent.
I caught wind of this “Complimentary Wagers for the Festive Season” campaign, yeah? Seems they’re putting their foot down about featuring young adults in the promotions. Gotta maintain that image, ensure it doesn’t appear they’re going after the under-25 demographic.
This isn’t an isolated incident either. Recall that Jeffbet debacle a while back? Similar regulations were apparently being flouted there as well. The ASA clearly means business on this issue.