The Dutch Gambling Authority has renewed Lotto B.V.’s three monopoly licenses for five years. The licenses allow the company to continue offering lotto games, instant lotteries and land-based sports betting after its current authorizations expire Dec. 31, 2026.
The new licenses include conditions intended to protect players and prevent minors from participating, as well as a duty to report planned changes to Lotto B.V.’s ownership and control. The regulator awarded the licenses directly because of Lotto B.V.’s position as a state participation under state control. If the company is privatized during the license term, the authority will assess whether the licenses can continue or should be withdrawn.
The decision comes while the Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State considers an appeal over whether the monopoly system may continue. If the court rules that the market must be opened, Lotto B.V.’s licenses can remain in force while other parties apply. If direct awards are no longer allowed, the regulator may withdraw the licenses, but not earlier than one year after the ruling so it can prepare a transparent licensing process.