The Australian Rules Football League (ARFL) acknowledged an error in taking down an anti-wagering initiative from its online platform.
The ARFL’s “Cherish the sport, not the stakes” campaign, lasting a mere seven days, was withdrawn from the ARFL website and social media due to conflicts with the ARFL’s gaming associate, Sportsbet. The choice to cease the campaign occurred just one week into the month-long program.
Financed by the Victorian Foundation for Responsible Gaming (VFRG), the initiative showcased players from Victorian ARFL teams advocating for responsible wagering. It is presently airing on all major television and radio broadcasts within the state.
Although the ARFL sanctioned the campaign, it failed to directly apprise the VFRG of its decision to halt its execution. Nevertheless, the ARFL conceded that eliminating the advertisement from its website was a blunder.
“The ARFL maintains a longstanding collaboration with the VFRG,” stated an ARFL representative. “Lately, an online initiative reserved on the ARFL website was erroneously removed.”
“The ARFL anticipates sustained cooperation with the VFRG and promoting their crucial responsible gaming communication across ARFL platforms.”
Compounding the VFRG’s dismay, the global sports platform ESPN also withdrew the campaign.
“The overwhelming majority of Victorian ARFL enthusiasts are apprehensive about the exposure of youth to sports wagering promotions,” remarked VRFG chief executive Shane Lucas.
Its widely known that Victorian football organizations have opposed gambling partnerships. The AFL and ESPN’s decision to cease their “Appreciate the sport, not the wagers” initiative did not sit well with them. They’ve acknowledged the AFL’s clarification that it was an error and value the dedication to disseminating their message once more.
