UKGC investigates Mansion Group’s M88 and Mansion Europe brands
Operator’s sponsorship deal with Premier League club Bournemouth ends as UKGC confirms investigation process
Mansion Group’s Asia-facing M88 and Mansion Europe operations are currently being investigated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
The investigation was brought to light by The Athletic after Premier League club Bournemouth decided against renewing its sponsorship deal with the online gambling operator.
The UKGC told EGR in a statement: “The Gambling Commission is currently looking at various aspects of the M88 and Mansion Europe model and operations. No further comment will be made while this process is ongoing.”
Bournemouth and M88 originally signed a two-year deal in 2017, which was extended to the end of the 2019-20 season to mark a club-record deal.
Bournemouth will now play the remainder of the Premier League season, scheduled to restart on 17 June behind closed doors, without a shirt sponsor after taking the decision not to extend the agreement.
A club statement read: “AFC Bournemouth can confirm that its partnership with M88 will end on 31 May. The online gaming company has featured on the front of the club’s home, away and third shirts, and training wear, since the start of the 2017-18 season. The club will therefore complete the 2019-20 campaign in new training wear and playing kits. AFC Bournemouth would like to thank M88 for its support over the past three years.”
Bournemouth is reportedly exploring the idea of replacing M88’s branding with a ‘Thank You NHS’ message for the final nine games of the season as top-tier sport returns following the coronavirus blackout.
EGR Intel has contacted Mansion Group for comment.