SiGMA Exclusive: 1xBet responds to recent allegations

Recent investigations by independent investigative group Bellingcat , ?and football magazine Josimar have exposed dubious practices of the betting giant 1xBet , revealing its extensive involvement in organising and streaming thousands of amateur sports events, some involving minors. The activities exposed by the investigations include orchestrating matches with fictitious teams, portrayed as legitimate sporting events. A notable aspect is the so-called “short football,” a variant of futsal live-streamed to engage bettors. Despite the controversies, 1xBet has secured lucrative sponsorships with prestigious football clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and FC Barcelona , continuing to expand its reach globally.

Following the Bellingcat and Josimar investigations, SiGMA News spoke with Alex Sommers , Director of Affiliate Marketing at 1xBet.

How does 1xBet respond to the allegations of operating in countries where it is banned, such as Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine? What measures are being implemented to ensure compliance with local laws?

1xBet does not operate in the Russian Federation or Belarus or Ukraine. Access to 1xBet’s website has been geo-blocked in these countries since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022 at our initiative. Our policy is that we do not accept clients based in either country and this is reflected in the relevant terms and conditions. 1xBet is not a Russian company; it is a global award-winning bookmaker brand with a head office in Cyprus. The company complies with all local laws and regulations in countries where its brand is operated.

What is your response to the claims that 1xBet is involved in hosting manipulated sports games, including setting goal limits for matches?

1xBet is not involved in the organisation or hosting of the sports, tournaments and matches which it takes bets on, which are legal and legitimate. 1xBet acquires video streams from third party audiovisual providers, like many gaming companies do, and these videos are incorporated on the website on the basis that they are legitimate competitive events. In the event we identify streams which feature content that does not comply with local laws, we request for it to be removed. To re-emphasise, none of these videos are 1xBet productions.

Can you clarify the use of famous football team names in amateur games? How do you address concerns regarding the unauthorized representation of well-known teams like Real Madrid and Arsenal?

The streams we acquire from third party providers are based on content which complies with local laws. We would never endorse unauthorised use of any third-party material which breaches copyright, especially given we are partners to some of the biggest teams in global sport. In the event these are identified, we request their removal. Furthermore, we have written to all of our streaming providers reminding them of their obligations to filter videos and ensure those hosting are in full compliance with copyright laws....[Read More]