Betfair Forces Dutch Online Casino Rules to EU Review

Another online casino ban is attacked as Betfair and Ladbrokes move to protest the Dutch protection of the state monopoly on online gambling.

The European Court of Justice is considering the case brought against the Dutch online casino block by Betfair. Betfair and fellow online gambling operator Ladbrokes are contesting the Netherlands policy of protecting its betting monopoly.

The gaming companies have been forbidden to operate with Dutch citizens without the awarding of a Dutch gambling license. But Betfair has inquired as to Dutch licensing, only to be told they were not allowed to apply for the license.

Under the European Treaty, Betfair and Ladbrokes, as entities licensed by EU members, are entitled to offer any gambling services offered by the state or domestic companies. But thew Netherlands' state monopoly continues to accept bets, while foreign operators are denied.

Betfair officials say if the EU court rules in its favor, it may choose to sue the Netherlands for damages rather than wait for the interminable movement of EU justice. Such a suit could bring the online gambling company millions if it wins, with the clock ticking on further damages.

Judgments by the Court of Justice often take months, so online casino observers are allowing it may be as long as a year before a ruling is announced.