Italy Implements Sweeping New Online Gambling Rules and Market Reset

Italy formally entered a new phase of online gambling regulation, setting in motion a comprehensive framework designed to tighten oversight and reshape one of Europe’s largest digital betting markets. At 7 a.m. on November 14, the country switched to its revised system, turning on 52 newly validated licences issued by the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM). Although the rollout slipped a few hours past its intended midnight launch due to final technical revisions, the handover proceeded without disruption—an outcome ADM later described as a “smooth and decisive reset” for the sector.

A Market Restructured Through Costly Licences and Domain Limits

The shift introduces a far more demanding environment for operators. Each of the newly issued concessions cost €7 million, bringing total state revenue from the licensing phase to €364 million. This figure surpasses the Ministry of Economy and Finance’s originalprojection of €350 million, reflecting the high financial barrier of entry now embedded in the system. While ADM granted 52 licences, only 46 operators will be active, as several companies hold more than one permit.

One of the most transformative elements of the reform is the elimination of the long-standing “skins” model, which previously allowed multiple affiliated domains to function under a single licence. As of this morning, every licensee is restricted to one official domain, a move that triggered the closure of hundreds of websites at once. Regulators argue that this consolidation enhances clarity, simplifies supervision, and reduces opportunities for non-compliance.

Reinforced Player Safeguards and Digital Verification

Player protection has also been strengthened. Mandatory self-exclusion tools and spending limits remain, while a new rule requires users to register exclusively through SPID digital identity credentials or electronic ID cards. ADM confirmed the change earlier this week, framing it as a measure that enhances identity verification and clamps down on unauthorised activity.

Italy’s online gambling market—second only to the UK—recorded €5 billion in player spending last year, producing €3.8 billion in operator revenue and €1.1 billion in taxes. Projections suggest that market activity could reach €6 billion by 2025, with state revenue rising to €1.5 billion.

The reset has already shifted the competitive landscape. Well-known brands such as Betway, Unibet, Betaland, Betn1 and 1xBet opted not to pursue new concessions, marking their exit from Italy’s regulated online sector.

Further Reforms Planned for 2026

The reforms serve as the first stage of a broader overhaul. In 2026, the government will advance Phase 2, introducing a refreshed federal framework for land-based gambling venues, including bingo halls, casinos, arcades and sports betting franchises.

Authorities also plan to revisit the 2018 Dignity Decree, which imposed a total ban on gambling advertising and sponsorship. Deputy Minister of the Economy and Finance Maurizio Leo, working with Sports Minister Andrea Abodi, will lead discussions with stakeholders, including newly elected Serie A president Ezio Simonelli. Clubs continue advocating for a more commercially sustainable sponsorship model.

ADM maintains that the combined digital and land-based reforms will position Italy as Europe’s best-governed and most compliant gambling market, completing a regulatory transformation years in the making.

Source:

“Italy dice benvenuto to new online gambling era”, sbcnews.co.uk. November 14, 2025