In a US first, MLS’s 24 professional soccer clubs have been given the green light to advertise sports betting.
The league’s teams can now sell rights to Sportsbooks to advertise inside stadiums and on player jersey fronts. They will also be able to do it in radio and TV broadcasts and in digital advertising on the internet.
New regulations unveiled by the MLS on Wednesday will also allow call-to-action advertising encouraging fans to bet on their favorite teams. In addition, sportsbook operators will be able to use clubs logos in their own advertising.
The clubs will also be free to arrange functions where betting tips and odds are discussed
Sports-betting call-to-action advertising encouraging sports fans to make wagers on their favorite teams will also be allowed. So too will club functions organized to discuss betting tips and odds.
If Okayed by state officials, the MLS will even allow clubs to partner licensed betting companies to operate in-stadium sportsbooks.
Bet on your favorite teams now!
Team-owner Leonsis wants a sportsbook in his Arena
It’s the kind of thing Ted Leonsis, the wealthy owner of the NBA’s Washington Wizards and the NHL’s Washington Capitals hopes to pull off.
He’s made it known he would like to establish a sportsbook inside Capital One Arena, home of both teams.
MLS’s new guidelines include some restrictions. Carter Ladd, MLS vice president of business development, was clear on that point when they were announced.
For one thing, the MLS will not allow sports betting companies to “access athletes” for advertising purposes. “It would have to be more of an overarching integration with the club,” he said.
For another, sports wagering ads will have to be “age appropriate”. For instance, it will not be allowed on boys and youths replica match jerseys. Nor will it be allowed on any kit worn by MLS academy and youth teams.
