TonyBet has received a warning from the Netherlands Gambling Authority, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), after the operator listed betting markets on the winner of the Ballon d’Or and the FIFA Club World Cup Golden Boot. 

Under Dutch law, such wagers are prohibited because they are decided by votes or jury verdicts rather than by measurable sporting performance during official competitions.

In the Netherlands, the law states licensed sportsbooks can only offer bets on official sports events organised by trusted national or international groups, and only when the results are based on a clear and checkable performance.

The authority made it clear in its statement that awards off the field fall outside of these parameters.

The response

TonyBet confirmed that no bets had been placed on the offending markets before they were removed, and has promised to tighten controls over its sportsbook content to prevent similar breaches in the future. 

While the KSA has decided to issue a warning on this occasion, it reiterated that licensees are fully responsible for every betting option available on their platforms, even when those markets are supplied by third-party providers.

The warning to TonyBet comes amid a sustained period of heightened enforcement from the KSA.

Starting 1 January 2025, the organisation implemented a new ‘General Policy of Fines’ to govern Dutch gambling licences. The fine structure was organised into five categories, with basic penalties ranging from €500 (£430) for Category 1 violations up to €2m (£1.7m) for the most serious offences in Category Five.

As the KSA explained: “The New General Policy of Fines aims to ensure penalties are appropriate and serve as punitive and preventive measures. It seeks to deter violations and promote compliance with gambling regulations.”

KSA flags gambling tax concerns

The latest enforcement work is unfolding against the backdrop of mounting financial pressure on the regulated Dutch betting market. The regulator has just warned that January’s rise in gambling tax from 30.5% to 34.2% is hurting the country. 

A new impact assessment shows gross gaming revenue falling across both online and land-based sectors, leading to lower tax receipts instead of the expected boost. 

KSA Chair Michel Groothuizen cautioned that weakening the financial position of licensed operators undermines long-term player protection. With another hike to 37.8% due next year, the authority is looking for a rethink on certain policies.

New beginnings

In other news, this week the KSA has appointed Marjolein Hoogland, Chief Attorney General of the Dutch Court of Appeal, and Erasmus University Professor Ingmar Franken to its Objections Advisory Committee – which reviews licensee appeals.

They join President Anita Vegter, two existing members, and three independent Chairs at a time when the panel’s workload is expected to grow as new KOA reforms, tighter marketing rules and player protection measures reshape the Dutch market.