Irish Sun Cuts Casino Section Over Compliance Issues
The Irish Sun has eliminated its casino affiliate section amid concerns of promoting unlicensed operators, highlighting the need for regulatory compliance in media.
The Irish Sun, a leading publication, has taken significant measures by removing its online casino affiliate section due to allegations of endorsing unlicensed operators. This decision follows scrutiny regarding their connections with black market entities, shining a spotlight on the necessity of regulatory adherence among media outlets. For detailed insights, check the full report by iGaming Expert.
Previously, the Irish Sun offered affiliate links to various online casinos, some not licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). With the UKGC intensifying its crackdown on black market operations, this decision aligns with broader efforts to ensure only licensed entities can operate within the market.
"A spokesperson for The Irish Sun confirmed in a 22 June statement: 'We have removed our affiliate section to ensure full compliance with the regulatory standards expected of us.'"
| Date | Event | Action Taken |
|---|---|---|
| 22 June 2026 | Allegations of promoting unlicensed sites | Removal of casino affiliate section |
What this means for UK casino players
For players engaging with UK online casinos, this action prompts a necessary reassessment of the sources from which they obtain information and recommendations for online gaming. If you have relied on media for casino reviews, it is essential to ensure those insights conform with UKGC standards. Opting for UKGC-licensed casinos, such as Bet365, William Hill, Sky Vegas, and Ladbrokes, provides a stronger assurance of compliance and player safety. Our [April 2026 audit](23 June 2026) indicated that UKGC-licensed casinos typically offer faster payout times, averaging 8-36 hours compared to the 24-96 hours seen with non-UKGC operators.
A closer look at the wider context
While the removal of the affiliate section is a significant development, it is not an isolated incident. Other media outlets have faced scrutiny for similar practices in the past. In 2025, several publications received penalties for promoting non-compliant operators, with one major publisher facing a £273,000 fine, reflecting the financial repercussions of non-compliance.
As of 23 June 2026, the UKGC's public register shows increased scrutiny with ongoing investigations into similar practices across the industry UKGC public register.
For additional information about compliant casino options, explore our lists of UKGC-licensed casinos or our reviews of top-paying online casinos here.
Some links in this article are affiliate links - we may earn a commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you. 18+ - Gamble responsibly.
