Dutch regulator renews Lotto monopoly despite court challenge
The Netherlands gambling regulator has renewed three exclusive licences held by state-owned Lotto BV for another five years despite a pending legal challenge that could ultimately force the market open to competitors.
The Kansspelautoriteit has extended Lotto’s licences covering lottery games, scratchcards and land-based sports betting until 2031.
The licences had been due to expire on December 31, 2026.
The regulator had initially intended to wait for the Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State to rule on a challenge to the Dutch monopoly structure.
MORE: Dutch gambling sites
However, the KSA decided that allowing the licences to expire while the case remained unresolved could interrupt the country’s legal gambling supply.
Lotto BV forms part of Nederlandse Loterij, the Dutch state-owned lottery group.
Under the existing system it holds exclusive rights to the three product categories covered by the renewed licences.
That position could change substantially depending on the Council of State’s decision.
If the court determines that the monopoly must be opened, Lotto BV’s licences could remain valid while rival operators are allowed to apply for permits.
Alternatively, if the court finds the existing direct-award mechanism itself cannot continue, Lotto BV’s renewed licences could ultimately be revoked and replaced through a competitive tender process.
The KSA said any revocation would take effect no earlier than one year after the court decision, giving the regulator time to establish a transparent licensing procedure.
The renewed licences also contain new conditions requiring Lotto BV to notify the regulator before material changes to its ownership or corporate structure.
For international gambling operators, the court decision is potentially more important than the licence renewal itself: a successful challenge could create new entry opportunities in Dutch lottery, scratchcard and land-based sports betting markets that are currently closed to competitors.
