The Australian Football League (AFL) has come under fire for promoting a series of bets with an 85% failure rate, drawing criticism from politicians and advocates for responsible gambling. These bets, known as same-game multis, allow punters to gamble on various outcomes such as possessions and goal scorers during televised coverage.
Hosted by former AFL star Nathan Brown, these bets require all outcomes to be successful for a payout. The AFL has been featuring these suggested bets in partnership with Sportsbet, with videos shared on social media platforms, including Twitter, where the league boasts a significant following.
An analysis of 90 same-game multis promoted by Sportsbet since June has revealed that punters would have won on only 15% of occasions, indicating a significant profit margin for the betting agency. This data, initially reported by a social media account and independently verified, highlights the high risk and low return nature of these bets.
The AFL’s involvement in promoting these bets has raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of gambling advertisements in sports. The federal government is contemplating a ban on such ads following recommendations from a parliamentary inquiry.
Earlier disclosures confirmed that the AFL benefits financially from gambling turnover on matches, beyond official sponsorship deals with betting companies. This revelation has sparked criticism from politicians, including Independent MP Kate Chaney and long-time AFL critic Andrew Wilkie, who advocate for an immediate ban on these advertisements.
Amidst mounting pressure, the AFL spokesperson maintained that the league complies with government regulations concerning advertising practices. However, critics argue that the AFL’s reliance on gambling revenue compromises its integrity and places financial gain over public interest.
As the debate intensifies, concerns about the impact of gambling partnerships on the sport’s image and fan engagement have been voiced by various stakeholders. The Alliance for Gambling Reform has condemned the AFL’s association with gambling providers, labeling it as detrimental to the sporting experience.
With calls for increased scrutiny and regulation of gambling advertisements in sports, the AFL faces a delicate balancing act between revenue generation and maintaining the trust and support of its fan base. The ongoing debate underscores the complex relationship between sports, gambling, and responsible marketing practices.
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