Spelinspektionen, the national gambling regulator in Sweden, could limit foot betting in the country.
The governing body is currently looking at ways to reduce match-fixing, with a consultation period inviting industry stakeholders to share their thoughts.
Large media publications have also reported that, in the absence of major sporting events due to Covid-19, some punters placed money on Swedish amateur clubs.
Scandinavia’s largest country has already introduced stricter online casino measures for the remainder of this year.
What would restricted football betting in Sweden look like?
If Spelinspektionen chooses to implement these changes, operators will only be allowed to offer markets on the country’s top four football divisions.
As far as the Swedish Cup is concerned, only matches featuring teams from the above leagues would be allowed to be bet on.
International games would be restricted to under-21 games and up.
Wagering on training matches and friendlies would be forbidden. The country’s regulator has also mentioned that these regulations could be introduced to other sports too.
Spelinspektionen’s consultation period is open until 6th May.
Players abroad have been betting on obscure Swedish games
As reported by Al Jazeera earlier this month, international gamblers have been betting on amateur games in Sweden due to the absence of bigger matches.
Major sports matches across the world have been postponed due to the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
The Allsvenskan, Sweden’s top footballing division, was supposed to begin its 2020 season at the beginning of April. However, it is currently on hold.
Stricter online casino measures have been implemented
Last week, Sweden’s Social Security Minister Ardalan Shekarabi announced that online casino regulations would be tightened. This will last until at least the end of 2020, in response to Covid-19 and potential gambling-related risks this poses.
Players will be subjected to a maximum weekly deposit limit of 5,000 Swedish Krona, which is around £400. Online bonuses shall also be prohibited from exceeding SEK 100 (roughly £8).
Users will also be obliged to set mandatory casino time limits.
