Brentford striker Ivan Toney’s return to football after an eight-month suspension for breaching gambling regulations has reignited discussions about the pervasive influence of gambling in the sport. Toney’s ban was met with sympathy, reflecting a broader concern about the prevalence of betting within football. Toney’s comeback has been impressive, scoring in a 2-2 draw against Como and netting a hat-trick in a 5-1 victory over Southampton Under-23s. His form suggests he’s ready to return to the Premier League, much to the apprehension of Nottingham Forest, who face Brentford in a crucial match.

Role of gambling in sports betting

However, Toney’s return isn’t just a sporting issue. It’s a reminder of the significant role gambling plays in football. In the UK, sports betting is legal and enjoyed by many. Sports like horse racing and greyhound racing are almost inseparable from it. Yet, some people suffer from crippling gambling addiction. While they deserve support, their existence doesn’t necessarily warrant a blanket ban on betting, just as the existence of alcoholics doesn’t lead to widespread calls for a ban on alcohol. History shows that betting is difficult to ban outright. It persists despite legislation against it. Moreover, legitimate bookmakers aren’t the ones fixing matches or resorting to violence against debtors. In fact, in a competition like the Premier League, which attracts significant gambling, betting can serve as a safeguard against match-fixing. Bookmakers’ algorithms can detect suspicious patterns and trigger warnings, leading to investigations. However, this doesn’t mean that everything is fine with betting and football. Investigations have revealed bookmakers deliberately targeting vulnerable individuals, fostering addictions. There are also dubious foreign betting firms for example sponsoring clubs via registration in the Isle of Man.

Responsibility of Football Association and Gambling Commission

Advertising is another issue. Given the ease of online betting, addicts should be able to watch sport without being constantly encouraged to gamble. Restrictions on sponsorship, television advertising before games, and visible advertising during games seem reasonable. The responsibility for addressing these issues could fall to the proposed football regulator, the Football Association, or the Gambling Commission. Regardless, it’s a matter that requires urgent attention. However, this doesn’t absolve players of their responsibilities. They too must be mindful of their actions and the potential consequences.

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