Network Ten breaches gambling ad rules during F1 broadcast

Network Ten has been found in breach of broadcasting rules after airing gambling advertisements during the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix in March 2024.

An investigation by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) found the network aired four gambling ads at prohibited times during the first practice round of the Grand Prix.

The Commercial TV code of practice prohibits gambling promotions during sporting events between 5am and 8.30pm, including the five minutes before and after the event. The restrictions apply to practice and qualifying rounds as well as the main event.

ACMA Authority member Carolyn Lidgerwood said the rules aim to minimise gambling-related harm.

“Broadcasters should have strict controls in place to ensure compliance with the restrictions on gambling ads during sporting events,” Lidgerwood said.

This marks Network Ten’s first breach of the gambling ad rules under the code. The network attributed the violation to human error.

In response to the ACMA’s findings, Ten said it had strengthened its ad scheduling processes, introduced additional quality controls and implemented new staff training measures. The network will provide a written progress report to the ACMA.

In a separate investigation last year, the ACMA found the broadcaster’s streaming service, 10 Play, had breached online gambling ad rules during two live-streamed sports events.

“The ACMA will closely monitor these actions and Network Ten’s compliance with the broadcasting and online gambling advertising rules,” Lidgerwood said.