The Aussie Rules league acknowledged they blundered by removing an anti-wagering initiative from their online platform. The project, “Cherish the sport, not the stakes,” was dropped after a mere seven days because it seemingly didn’t resonate with Sportsbet, a prominent gaming firm and AFL collaborator.
The initiative, showcasing athletes from Victorian AFL squads endorsing responsible gaming, is still airing on television and radio throughout Victoria. It’s financed by the Victorian Responsible Gaming Foundation (VRGF).
Although the AFL initially endorsed the project, they failed to properly inform the VRGF before applying the brakes. They’ve subsequently labeled the website withdrawal an oversight. An AFL representative stated they maintain a robust partnership with the VRGF and that the removal was an error. They emphasized their dedication to collaborating with the VRGF and utilizing AFL channels to advocate for responsible gaming.
Further aggravating the situation, ESPN also withdrew the initiative, which didn’t sit right with the VRGF. Their chief executive, Shane Lucas, highlighted that a majority of Victorian AFL supporters are apprehensive about the volume of sports wagering promotions targeting young individuals.
All ten Victorian Australian Football League teams have publicly condemned sports wagering partnerships, demonstrating a unified stance.
Although disheartened by the AFL and ESPN’s removal of the “Love the game, not the odds” initiative from their broadcasts, the teams acknowledge the AFL’s clarification that it was a blunder and are glad the campaign will be reinstated.
