Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Netherlands gambling regulator, has launched its application process for the stewardship of its monopoly horseracing totaliser licence.  

The monopoly contract, which is currently maintained by French racing operator ZEturf, is set to expire on 30 June 2022.

KSA new contract will cover a five year period from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2027, guaranteeing a single incumbent the rights to provide on-course wagering services for the four national race tracks – Drafbaan Groningen, Drafcentrum Alkmaar, Renbaan Duindigt and Victoria Park Wolvega.

Totaliser applicants will be required to pay an up-front payment of €32,000 to participate in the KSA tender, with no refunds given if rejected.

During phase one of the tender, applicants will be reviewed against a remit of requirements including “legal supervision and location, continuity, business management, reliability, integrity policy, and demonstrable experience with offline sports betting”.

Applicants that match tender requirements will be approved into a ‘phase two unweighted draw’ carried out by the Dutch Law Notary.

“If only one party meets the conditions from the 1st phase, no draw is required and no 2nd phase takes place,” the KSA explained

“We will then grant the license to the party that is the only party that meets the conditions for licensing.” 

Concluding its update, the KSA stated that it aimed to conclude phase one of the tender by mid-January with the winner to be announced by February 2022.