Betfair Discussing Gambling Law in Greece

Just as they’re seeking to obtain a license in the Netherlands seemingly against the odds, online sportsbook providers Betfair have ambition that extends far further into increasingly lucrative Europe. And they’re reportedly going right to top to get changes made to Greek gambling laws.

Betfair currently has company representatives in Greece to discuss the proposed incoming legislation on online gambling in Greece with government officials there. Formally submitted to parliament in June, the new Greek gambling law would provide a taxation and regulation system to be in place by May 2011.

As in Holland, Betfair would seem to have an uphill battle ahead, as the proposed law would substantially open the market in the current European fashion to foreign-based Internet poker and online casinos in Greece. However, a grandfather clause of sorts allows the standing state-run monopoly OPAP to serve as sole provider of lottery wagering and sports betting in Greece through 2019.

Nevertheless Betfair is pressing forth. Aside from Netherlands and Greece, the sportsbook is also targeting Denmark, which recently liberalized its online gambling laws to open up the market in 2011. After these, Betfair would be looking to Spain and Germany, though these markets are suffering under regressive gambling laws at present.