Spain has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to its gambling laws that would tighten restrictions on celebrity and influencer advertising linked to betting and online gaming.
The consultation, opened by the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and Agenda 2030 through gambling regulator DGOJ, is part of a broader effort to modernise Spain’s gambling framework after 15 years. Officials say the reforms are aimed at strengthening consumer protection and adapting regulation to the growth of digital gambling.
Among the key proposals are new limits on the use of celebrities, athletes, influencers and public figures in gambling promotions. Authorities are also reviewing rules surrounding welcome bonuses and customer acquisition campaigns, along with how gambling operators appear in online search results. Under the draft measures, gambling-related advertising pages would only be allowed to appear when users specifically search for gambling content.
The move comes after Spain’s Supreme Court partially overturned several gambling advertising restrictions introduced under the 2020 Royal Decree. The annulled measures included limits on bonus promotions, the use of celebrities in gambling marketing and restrictions on certain online advertising channels.
Spain’s government now appears determined to reintroduce stricter safeguards through updated legislation. Consumer Affairs officials said the reform is designed to improve prevention measures, combat illegal gambling and offer stronger protections for vulnerable users, particularly younger audiences exposed to digital advertising.
The consultation process will remain open until June 22, allowing citizens, industry stakeholders and organisations to submit feedback on the proposed reforms.