Denmark takes decisive action to reduce gambling addiction
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3 Nov 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Denmark has approved a package of new measures to combat gambling addiction. The so-called Spilpakke 1 contains several restrictions on gambling advertising, particularly aimed at young people and sport.
From 2027, there will be a ban on gambling advertising during live sports matches. This applies from ten minutes before kick-off until ten minutes after the final whistle. Live odds will also no longer be visible in the stadium.
New rules also focus on online bonuses and social media
It is not only sports advertising that is being tackled. So-called “free money games” as welcome bonuses at online casinos will also be banned. Advertisements may no longer be shown to young people under the age of 25.
Gambling companies will also be tasked with ensuring that young people no longer see their advertisements online. This includes stricter rules on social media.
More money for addiction care and stronger control of illegal gambling
The Danish government is also making additional funds available for addiction care. From 2026 onwards, treatment centres will receive more resources. In this way, the government wants to prevent gambling from becoming a problem.
At the same time, the regulator Spillemyndighederne will be given more power. It will soon be able to block illegal gambling sites and take tough action against offenders. The watchdog has already received support in its approach to illegal gambling advertising.
Politicians respond unanimously to figures on gambling problems
Politicians have responded positively to the package. The figures speak for themselves. Almost half a million Danes struggle with gambling problems, 30,000 of them seriously. In addition, there are tens of thousands of young people with gambling-related complaints.
Danish politicians believe that the gambling industry has been given too much leeway for too long. According to Minister Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen, this package is therefore ‘a step towards a fairer playing field’.
The tough approach follows years of growth in the sector. The explosive rise in online gambling shows how quickly the market has developed. That is precisely why Denmark is now setting clear limits.