The NRL today announced a renewal of its current agreement with Sportsbet which will see it become the code’s official wagering partner.
Valued at more than $60 million and running until 2020, the agreement will enable funds to be put back into the game at all levels.
Head of Commercial Andrew Abdo said the renewal features a range of conditions around advertising and marketing, responsible gambling, and data and privacy protocols that will significantly improve integrity in wagering.
"One of the crucial factors in this agreement is that there will be controls in place to restrict the promotion of wagering, especially to minors, and Sportsbet will fund and implement a market leading responsible gambling program," Mr Abdo said.
The agreement will also see Sportsbet working with the NRL to accelerate the NRL’s digital capability and the opportunity this opens up for the game in data analytics, insights and direct marketing.
"We already have a partnership with Sportsbet but this extension will see a significant increase in funding for Rugby League," Mr Abdo said.
Sportsbet Chief Marketing Officer, Barni Evans, said the agreement would reaffirm the company’s strong links with Rugby League.
"There has never been more interest in Rugby League with ratings, crowds and memberships all on the rise so we are delighted to become the code’s official partner," Mr Evans said.