Online gambling tender: last day to submit offers as Italy opens a new chapter in digital gaming
Today marks the final deadline to participate in the public tender launched by Italys Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) for the allocation of new licenses for online gambling operations. This is a crucial moment for Italys iGaming industry, not only for its regulatory and economic implications, but also due to the strategic significance of the Italian market, the most regulated in Europe and second only to the UK in terms of online gambling volume.
A long-awaited opportunity: nine-year licenses for remote gambling
Published in accordance with , the tender will grant new licenses valid for nine years, officially inaugurating a new era for regulated digital gaming in Italy. The initiative has drawn significant attention from both domestic and international operators, attracted by a dynamic market with strict entry requirements.
The government’s objective of awarding 50 licenses is considered realistic, given the sectors high market value. As ADM Director Mario Lollobrigida stated during last weeks General Assembly, Italy’s gambling market remains one of the most appealing globally, with over 92 billion in online wagers recorded in 2024 alone.
Key technical and financial requirements for bidders
Operators were required to submit extensive technical and administrative documentation. Among the main components were the support contract, necessary when relying on third-party resources or expertise; a detailed investment plan, with minimum thresholds of 700,000 over the first two years and 0.03% of average turnover thereafter; and a technical report outlining IT infrastructure, data security, operational continuity, and environmental and training policies.
In addition to these requirements, a 7 million one-off license fee and an annual fee equal to 3% of net gaming margin must be paid. These high costs have raised concerns among smaller operators but are justified by the sectors profitability and regulatory objectives.
Legal challenges and the administrative courts ruling
Several operators filed legal appeals with the Regional Administrative Court (TAR) of Lazio, arguing that the licensing costs constituted an unfair barrier to competition. However, the TAR rejected these challenges, ruling that the concession value was determined transparently and based on the sectors average net margin from 2022 to 2024, along with a 20% annual growth forecast.
A critical part of the legal challenge concerned Recharge Sales Points (PVRs), whose regulation was detailed in a specific ADM directive. The TAR found no exclusionary intent in these rules and declared the objection inadmissible. Furthermore, it upheld restrictions such as the prohibition on printed advertising and account creation for sales point owners, employees, or their families.
Council of State upholds the TAR decision
Following the TAR ruling, some operators sought a precautionary suspension of the tender from the Council of State. However, Italys highest administrative court also rejected the request, confirming the legitimacy of the tender process. A final hearing is scheduled for 12 June 2025.
Strategic gateway to a leading igaming market
The tender is more than just a regulatory event – it is a gateway to one of the worlds most lucrative and structured gambling markets. Fuelled by digital consumption trends, robust technological standards, and strong consumer confidence in regulated platforms, Italys iGaming sector continues to grow steadily.
The 2025-2034 licensing cycle promises to solidify the market presence of industry leaders while offering room for new, qualified entrants capable of innovation and compliance. Responsible and sustainable gaming will be vital priorities, as emphasised by both ADM and the judiciary, setting a high bar for ethical and technical standards.
Italy opens the race for the future of igaming
The deadline for the ADM tender marks the beginning of a new chapter for remote gambling in Italy. Its a phase that will reward financial stability, operational transparency, and strategic vision. As the envelopes are opened in the coming weeks, the competition for one of the most coveted markets in iGaming will officially begin. The rules are in place; the stage is set – now, its game on.
This article was first published in Italian on 30 May 2025.
