MGA Calls for Heightened Vigilance and Suspicious Betting Reporting Ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympic Games

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is reminding all licensees of the importance of heightened vigilance and the timely reporting of suspicious betting activity during the Youth Olympic Games (31 October 2026 – 13 November 2026). In collaboration with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the MGA reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of sport and betting markets and reminds licensees of their regulatory obligations under the MGA framework. Licensees are required to maintain enhanced monitoring of betting activity and to report any suspicious transactions without delay through the Suspicious Betting Reporting Mechanism, in line with Regulation 43 of the Gaming Authorisations and Compliance Directive (Directive 3 of 2018). Further guidance on reporting requirements, as well as related sports integrity obligations, is available in the Guidance Paper on Suspicious Betting Reporting Requirements and Other Sports Integrity Matters. Licensees should continue to maintain robust internal governance arrangements, including the designation of a Sports Integrity Point of Contact, and to ensure active cooperation with the MGA Sports Integrity Unit and other relevant integrity bodies. As with other major international sporting events, licensees are expected to adopt a proactive and risk-based approach throughout the tournament period. Failure to comply with the above obligations may result in enforcement action. The Authority further reminds licensees, and third parties acting on their behalf, that all commercial communications must comply with the Commercial Communications Regulations (S.L. 583.09). Advertising must be socially responsible and must not target or otherwise cause harm to minors and vulnerable persons, whether directly or indirectly.