Betfair reportedly prepares to exit Italy as affiliate programme ends

Betfair is reportedly preparing to leave the Italian market, starting with the end of its affiliate programme on 31 October 2026. According to a report citing company sources, planned regulatory changes would make the Italian Exchange service no longer commercially sustainable, and Flutter has decided to cease Betfair Sportsbook and casino operations in the country as well. No operational closure date for the gambling services has been announced.

Betfair has told affiliates that the Italian programme ends on 31 October 2026 and has asked for promotional content aimed at customers in Italy to be removed by 29 October. Commissions accrued in October will be processed and paid in November, in the final scheduled payment cycle. Enrolments in affiliate programmes for other territories remain unchanged, according to the report.

The end of the affiliate programme is separate from the closure of the gambling services. The report, dated 24 October, said no precise date had been given for the operational cessation of Exchange, Sportsbook and casino, and that the activities would end once accounting matters with customers had been settled.

According to the report, the activities concerned represent a marginal component of the group's Italian revenue. The decision is said to have no consequences for Flutter's other brands or for employees in the country.

Betfair launched its Exchange in 2000, introducing an online market in which customers can both accept odds and offer them to other participants. The brand later added traditional sports betting and casino products. It is now part of Flutter Entertainment, whose brands also include Sisal, Snaitech and PokerStars.