TLDR Slovakia’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (URHH) has warned operators to follow strict consumer protection rules during the 2026 FIFA World Cup All advertising campaigns across TV, online, social media, and outdoor must meet regulatory standards Operators must promote self-exclusion and deposit limit tools in their marketing URHH will intervene immediately if operators break gambling or consumer protection rules The crackdown follows over a year of debate around gambling reform in Slovakia
Slovakia’s gambling regulator has put operators on notice ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, warning that the tournament will not be an excuse for aggressive or irresponsible marketing.
The Gambling Regulatory Authority, known as URHH, issued the warning to both online and land-based licensees. It said every advertising campaign tied to the World Cup must meet consumer protection standards.
Director General of gambling policy, Libuša Baranová, confirmed the regulator’s position directly.
“During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Gambling Regulatory Authority will consistently monitor and evaluate the content of operators’ advertising campaigns throughout the duration of the tournament,” she said.
Operators are expected to include tools like self-exclusion schemes and deposit limits in their messaging. The regulator wants campaigns to promote responsible gambling rather than push hard-sell tactics to bring in new customers.
Monitoring Across All Platforms
URHH said its oversight will cover television, online platforms, social media, and outdoor advertising. The regulator made clear it will step in right away if any operator is found to be in breach of gambling rules or consumer protection laws.
The warning comes as Slovakia continues to review its broader gambling framework. The conversation around reform has been going on for more than a year.
In early 2025, Minister Rudolf Huliak called on the government to update its rules. He argued that existing regulations were not keeping up