UK ASA Orders Betway to Remove “Irresponsible” F1 Ad Immediately
UPDATE: The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has just reprimanded **Betway**, demanding the immediate removal of an advertising campaign featuring **F1** drivers that was deemed “irresponsible.” This urgent ruling, issued on **July 4, 2025**, stems from concerns over the ad’s appeal to underage viewers and its violation of strict gaming advertisement regulations.
The ASA’s action follows a complaint that highlights how the ad, displayed on **Facebook**, prominently featured renowned driver **Lewis Hamilton**. The ad depicted Hamilton and two other drivers in a grandstand at the **Silverstone** racetrack, raising concerns that it could attract children, particularly given Hamilton’s significant popularity among younger audiences.
According to the ASA, the ad’s tagline, “Who’s the best of the Brits?” alongside Betway’s logo, could easily resonate with under-18 viewers. This is particularly concerning as the ASA emphasizes that many children misrepresent their ages on social media platforms, allowing them access to content intended for adults.
“The ad must not appear again in its current form,” the ASA stated, reinforcing its commitment to protecting minors from potentially harmful content. The authority warned Betway to avoid featuring celebrities like Hamilton in future promotions, as they may have a strong appeal to younger fans.
In response, Betway disputed the ASA’s findings, asserting that Formula 1 is an adult-oriented sport categorized as having a “moderate risk” of appealing to minors. They emphasized that the “Hamilton” in the ad was not the actual driver but merely a back-of-head shot, minimizing his involvement. Betway also claimed that the ad was targeted exclusively at users over the age of 25 and that minors constitute a minimal part of Hamilton’s social media following.
Despite these defenses, the ASA upheld the complaint, citing research indicating a significant number of children access adult-oriented content on social media. The authority reiterated that Hamilton’s status as a Hall of Famer contributes to his wide recognition, which could inadvertently draw in younger viewers.
This ruling underscores the ongoing tension between advertising practices and child protection in the gambling sector, especially as regulations tighten globally. As the situation develops, the implications for Betway and similar operators could be significant, potentially leading to more stringent advertising restrictions.
In related news, Betway recently received backing from a **Maltese court** in a dispute over winnings, showcasing the company’s complex legal landscape.
For those following the evolving narrative around gambling advertisements, this incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of adhering to advertising standards that prioritize the safety and well-being of younger audiences.
