BetMGM announced on Monday that it is revising its terms of service to explicitly forbid customers from engaging in harassment towards athletes, as part of its broader efforts to promote sports integrity and player safety. The updated terms state that BetMGM will suspend a customer’s account if they are found to have used harassing or abusive language towards athletes, coaches, or other team and league personnel. While the company’s previous terms allowed for account suspension for any lawful reason, including harassment, the new language aims to establish clearer standards.
Rhea Loney, BetMGM’s chief compliance officer, emphasized that any confirmed instance of harassment will lead to decisive actions, including account suspension. The updated terms apply to customers in Ontario, where BetMGM operates in the regulated igaming market. IGaming Ontario, responsible for overseeing private operators in the province, did not provide a comment on the matter.
Ontario Senator Marty Deacon expressed appreciation for BetMGM’s actions but criticized them as insufficient in addressing the root causes of gambling addiction leading to such behavior. Deacon expressed concerns about potential incidents during the upcoming Winter Olympics involving young athletes who lack the support and resources of professionals.
Barry Sanders, a Pro Football Hall of Fame running back and BetMGM ambassador, commended the policy update as a clear message that harassment has no place in sports or sports betting. BetMGM tied the revision to its responsible gambling initiatives, which include educational efforts at various football stadiums across the country.
Recent incidents involving harassment of athletes, such as Gabby Thomas at a Grand Slam Track event and Elina Svitolina following a tennis match, have underscored the need to address abusive behavior in sports and online platforms. The move by BetMGM aligns with broader industry efforts to combat online abuse and ensure a safer environment for athletes and fans alike.
