1xBet rejects allegations of irresponsible behaviour

1xBet has denied allegations it has been operating in an irresponsible manner, instead citing third party networks for the issues that have apparently forced its UK-facing site offline.

The operator has vowed to work with the GB Gambling Commission to address the issue, and also revealed that it is working to secure a full gambling licence for the market. ​

1xBet found itself at the centre of a media storm following a report by UK broadsheet the Sunday Times. The paper levelled a number of allegations at the operator, including of promoting its brands on prohibited sites.

However the operator told iGB that third party partners were to blame for its ads appearing on prohibited sites. This, it said, was done without its prior knowledge or consent.

“We take very seriously the allegation that 1xBet’s brand has been promoted on prohibited sites,” a 1xBet spokesperson said. “We have launched an immediate internal investigation to ensure we improve our monitoring in this regard.

“Further, we have retained the services of an additional team including the UK’s leading specialist gaming and gambling consultants to advise us on all matters relating to this market.”

The Curacao-licensed operator's website, which operates under platform provider FSB Tech's Gambling Commission licence, has since gone offline. It has been replaced with a holding page informing players it is currently unavailable.

Following the allegations, the Gambling Commission told iGamingBusiness.com that there are “ongoing enquiries into 1xBet and their relationship with licensed operator FSB”, but would not share any further details about the case. While FSB allows 1xBet to operate under its licence, there has been no suggestion that the service provider is at fault. 

1xBet also reiterated its commitment to promoting responsible gambling among its customer base and adhering to the rules of regulations in all markets where it is active.

“We are an established, international gaming company, which abides by all the relevant laws and regulations in every jurisdiction in which we operate,” the spokesperson explained. “We are fully committed to creating an environment that protects people from irresponsible gambling and addiction.”

In addition, 1xBet said it will fully cooperate with the Gambling Commission in its enquiries, adding that it remains hopeful of securing full UK operating licence.

“We wish to reassure you that our application for a full UK operating licence is on track and we are fully committed to the UK market,” the spoksperson added.

1xBet signed a series of high profile sponsorship deals in football’s close season, including agreements with English Premier League clubs Chelsea and Liverpool. The operator also has a deal in place with Tottenham Hotspur.

iGamingBusiness.com has contacted all three clubs to comment on their position regarding the deals with 1xBet.