LOGiCO chief Marasco: Targeted rules instead of an advertising ban

Marasco says it is highly debatable whether the general betting advertising ban in Italy has achieved its goals. In his view, no concrete evidence has yet been presented showing that the ban has reduced problem gambling or protected vulnerable consumers.

According to Marasco, the most significant side effect of the ban has been the weakening of licensed operators' visibility, which has made it harder for consumers to distinguish authorised operators from illegal alternatives. He said illegal operators already do not comply with Italian rules and therefore do not face the same practical restrictions.

He argued that the impact of the ban should be assessed using measurable indicators, such as problem gambling trends, minors' exposure, the growth of illegal betting, and consumers' ability to recognise licensed operators. He stressed that removing commercial advertising from the main channels does not, by itself, mean that public health has improved.

Marasco said AGCOM's updated guidelines on responsible betting communication and the different regulatory approaches emerging across Europe are also part of the debate. He addressed stricter oversight of payment infrastructure to fight illegal gambling, evidence-based consumer protection, and stronger regulatory coordination among European markets. Marasco will take part as a speaker in the 'Advertising ban: from prohibition to a balanced approach' panel at SiGMA World 2026.