The Professional Footballers’ Association of Northern Ireland (PFA NI) has increased its focus on gambling-related harm through a partnership with Gamban, a blocking software.
As part of the agreement, Gamban will provide all of PFA NI members with free access to its blocking technology, which prevents users from accessing gambling websites and apps across devices.
Michael Carvill, CEO of PFA NI, stated that this deal bolsters the body’s commitment to supporting players on and off the pitch and highlighted the growing concerns around problem gambling.
He said: “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.”
There has been an increasing focus on gambling-related harm in football recently, particularly after several high-level footballers have been banned for betting-related offences in recent seasons.
West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta found himself under the spotlight after it was alleged he deliberately received bookings to influence betting markets on four separate occasions between November 2022 and August 2023.
The Brazilian could face a potential lifetime ban from the sport if he is found guilty, with his court case adjourned last week until the summer.
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.”
Change across UK football
Gambling sponsorships have been a hot topic of discussion. From the start of next season, Premier League clubs will be banned from front-of-shirt sponsorship deals with gambling companies, though sleeves and training kit deals will still be available.
This comes as advocacy groups and some supporters have raised concerns about the impact of gambling sponsorships on younger spectators, players and those with existing betting problems.
However, football clubs in every tier of the game have heavily relied on the income these deals provide, with the betting sector traditionally spending more on agreements than others.
In reaction to these debates, some partnerships have started to provide safer gambling initiatives to football players. This was the case with the Scottish Professional Football League’s deal with William Hill, announced last year.
