Key Moments:
- More than 40 senators have petitioned Prime Minister Mark Carney to implement a nationwide ban on sports gambling advertising
- The Senate has passed a bill to outlaw all sports gambling ads, pending approval from the House of Commons
- A September 2025 survey revealed 19 percent of Canadian adults placed a sports bet in the past year, a slight decrease from 21 percent the previous year
National Push for Restricting Sports Gambling Promotions
The prevalence of sports gambling advertisements has expanded rapidly across Canadian media since the legalization of single-event betting in 2021. In response, a significant coalition of over 40 senators has signed a petition urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to introduce a countrywide prohibition on sports gambling advertising. This drive is reminiscent of Canada’s historic move to ban tobacco ads, with attention now shifting toward safeguarding public health over commercial gains.
Senators Urge Action to Protect Public Health
Senators Percy E. Downe and Marty Deacon spearheaded the petition, contending that the omnipresence of gambling ads is detrimental to Canadians. The letter insists that “People of all ages are exposed to a constant stream of adverts promising a ‘premium gaming experience’ and urging them to turn their phone into a pocket-sized casino. We are asking for a ban on all advertising for sports gambling apps and websites. Such a measure would be similar to the advertising ban for cigarettes, and for the same reason: to address a public health problem.”
These calls have been echoed by medical experts. The Canadian Medical Association Journal published an editorial that advocates for greater restrictions on gambling advertisements, citing concerns around mental health and addiction. Experts highlighted that gambling addiction can mirror substance abuse in how it engages the brain’s reward system, and assert that ubiquitous exposure combined with easy accessibility exacerbates addiction risks.
Over 40 senators write to Prime Minister Carney urging him to ban sports betting ads. #cdnpoli #SenCA #bansportsbettingads pic.twitter.com/nLtTzPvLSK
— Senator Percy Downe (@PercyDowne) November 19, 2025
Survey Findings and Impact on Young Canadians
A Leger poll from September 2025 showed that 19 percent of Canadian adults reported betting on sports within the previous year, slightly down from 21 percent compared to the prior year. However, the study did not cover participants under 18, a demographic already subject to significant exposure through modern sports media.
Illustrating the issue, Dr Shawn Kelly from the Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine recounted how his seven-year-old son picked up gambling terminology while watching hockey. For Dr Kelly, this example demonstrates how gambling culture and language are becoming embedded in youth experiences through sports broadcasts.
Advertising Integration and Concerns Over Normalization
Today’s sports coverage features frequent gambling references, both during commercial breaks and within live commentary. This integration has blurred the distinction between following sports and participating in gambling activities. Professor Steve Joordens of the University of Toronto observed that such exposure makes gambling appear to be a normal aspect of sports fandom, particularly for younger audiences.
Last month, the Senate advanced a bill to prohibit all sports gambling advertisements. Senator Deacon played a prominent role in supporting this legislation. For the bill to become law, it still requires approval from the House of Commons, where it faces both political and economic considerations. Meanwhile, the government is feeling additional pressure from advocates as the Prime Minister has not yet delivered a response.
Industry Reaction and Next Steps
Stakeholders within the gambling sector and associated sporting organizations argue that a total ban may threaten sponsorship arrangements, broadcast revenues, and overall fan engagement. They have instead suggested adopting “responsible advertising” measures. Their critics, however, contend that the industry profits by fostering addiction and require stricter oversight. Should the petition gain traction and the bill clear the House of Commons, Canada could set a notable precedent in international sports betting regulation. The outcome remains a test of whether the country’s policies will favor public well-being over industry profit.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Senators’ Petition | More than 40 senators urge ban on all sports gambling advertising |
| Senate Bill | Senate passed legislation to outlaw sports gambling ads; awaiting House of Commons approval |
| Adult Betting Rate | 19% of Canadian adults placed a sports bet in past year (September 2025 Leger survey) |
- Author
Daniel Williams
