Italian tender set for September launch

Operators keen on entering the Italian market will have the opportunity to apply for a licence next month with the tender document expected to be published within the next few weeks, EGR has learned.

The tender process, which had originally been scheduled for a July launch, could result in as many as 120 new market entrants, with the likes of Winamax and LeoVegas thought to be among those mulling an application.

It is understood the regulator sent the tender document to the Council of State, via the Ministry of Finance, for sign-off in early July. However, the Council has 40 days from receipt to review and publish the final tender.

Despite the delay, applicants should still be able to complete the process and launch in the market before the end of the calendar year.

Successful applicants will be joined in the market by Sky Betting & Gaming, which is expected to launch using an existing licence in the next few months.

The raft of new market entrants will bring added competition to a growing market – one recently boosted by amendments to tax rates, the most notable being sportsbook’s switch from a turnover-based levy to one based on revenues.

Current licensees have the opportunity to enter the EGR Italy Awards, which will be held at the Rome Cavalieri on 5 October. To do so please visit our submissions website by clicking here.