A UK High Court judge ruled in Flutter Entertainment’s favor in a high-profile case regarding the role a gambling operator plays in protecting customers. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

Flutter Entertainment won a major legal ruling last week after a UK High Court judge sided with the gambling company in a high-profile duty of care lawsuit. The case dates back to 2021 when real estate developer Lee Gibson sued the company, alleging Flutter’s staff helped him get around problem betting protections.

Gibson struggled with addiction after opening a Betfair Exchange account in 2009, depositing £2.67m ($3.4m) over five years. His lawsuit contained screenshots of conversations with the company’s staff showing them offering various rewards to increase his gambling spend.

Flutter contended Gibson rebuffed several inquiries by staff about his gambling activity and never activated any account restriction tools. It also emphasized that no laws prevent it from offering bonuses, hospitality, or rewards to users.

Judge Bird ultimately agreed that Flutter didn’t violate any regulatory conditions

High Court Judge Bird ultimately agreed that Flutter didn’t violate any regulatory conditions and doesn’t have a duty of care obligation to players.

The decision is noteworthy as it provides a precedent for other operators battling claims from gamblers looking for repayment of historic losses due to alleged player safety failings.