Sportsbet pens extension with Australia’s NRL

Australian wagering operator Sportsbet has opted to extend its partnership with the National Rugby League (NRL), the top division of club rugby league in the country.

The extended deal will run until 2020 and is worth more than Aus$60 million (€38.5 million/US$43.7 million).

Under the agreement, Sportsbet will become the official wagering partner of the NRL, with funds committed to the sport in Australia at all levels.

Sportsbet will also work with the NRL to boost the league’s digital capability and opportunities in regards to data analytics, insights and direct marketing.

“One of the crucial factors in this agreement is that there will be controls in place to restrict the promotion of wagering, especially to minors, and Sportsbet will fund and implement a market leading responsible gambling programme,” NRL head of commercial Andrew Abdo said.

“We already have a partnership with Sportsbet but this extension will see a significant increase in funding for rugby league.”

Barni Evans, chief marketing officer at Sportsbet, added: “There has never been more interest in rugby league with ratings, crowds and memberships all on the rise so we are delighted to become the code’s official partner.”

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