Betfred is concluding its nine-year sponsorship of Rugby League’s Super League after the 2026 season. Chairman Fred Done attributed the decision to increased gambling taxes and rising operational costs.
What Happened
Betfred has ceased its sponsorship agreement with Rugby League’s Super League, marking the end of a partnership that spanned nearly a decade, according to the Evening Standard. Fred Done, founder and chairman of Betfred, confirmed the deal would not be renewed following the conclusion of the current season.
Done cited rising expenditure and tax increases on gambling operators as the primary reasons for this decision. This move follows the announcement of increases in Gaming Duty and Betting Duty last year, which industry figures like Per Widerstrom, CEO of William Hill and owner of Evoke PLC, have also highlighted as concerns (Evening Standard).
Key Details
- Betfred’s sponsorship of the Super League commenced in 2017 and included the Championship and League One the following year (Evening Standard).
- Chairman Fred Done stated the decision was “heart-breaking” but necessary due to economic factors (Evening Standard).
- In July, Betfred announced the closure of 132 shops, a decision Done attributed to wage inflation and tax rises (Evening Standard).
- The Rugby Football League (RFL) expressed gratitude to Done and Betfred, describing them as an “outstanding partner” (Evening Standard).
Why It Matters
The termination of Betfred’s sponsorship highlights the growing financial pressures on UK betting operators, specifically the impact of increased gambling taxes and operational costs on corporate sponsorship decisions, as reported by the Evening Standard. This situation suggests a shift in how betting companies allocate their marketing budgets, with some reportedly focusing sponsorship funds more heavily on the football market and exploring opportunities in other sports.
What’s Next
The sponsorship is set to conclude after the Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford (Evening Standard).
Originally reported by Evening StandardPublished
Sources & References
Primary source
- Evening Standardstandard.co.uk