Leicester City’s association with crypto casino platform BC.Game has come under scrutiny following reports of a bankruptcy ruling against the company in a Curacao court. While the club and its principal sponsor have downplayed the legal developments, concerns remain over the potential reputational damage this may cause.
The controversy stems from a Court of Appeal decision in Curacao that declared BC.Game’s parent company, Small House, bankrupt. This ruling followed claims brought by the Foundation for Representation of Victims of Online Gambling (SBGOK), which alleged significant financial losses tied to BC.Game’s operational handover earlier this year.
The court upheld two major claims—one exceeding £1.1 million and another of over £530,000—despite Small House’s denial of liability. The ruling opens the door for compensation claims against the company.
Sponsor Dismisses Financial Instability
BC.Game swiftly issued a statement rejecting the bankruptcy ruling and confirming plans to appeal. The platform emphasized that the case was an administrative matter rather than one of insolvency, assuring users and partners of its financial stability.
“Recently, BC.Game has been involved in legal actions initiated by some players,” the statement read. “The plaintiffs’ accusations include alleged platform misconduct and claims of user losses due to system issues or improper practices.
“However, BC.Game disputes these allegations, asserting that they lack substantive evidence and fail to demonstrate any violations by our platform.”
The company stressed that its liquidity, financial standing, and contractual obligations remain unaffected. It further noted that international operations would continue without disruption and expressed confidence in overturning the ruling.
“We strongly disagree with the court’s latest rulings and will spare no expenses to appeal this erroneous judgement,” BC.Game stated, adding that the ruling sent a concerning message to legitimate operators in Curacao.
Leicester City Reassures Fans
Leicester City echoed BC.Game’s assurances in their own statement, emphasizing that the legal matter posed no threat to their sponsorship deal, which is reportedly worth £31.6 million. The club expressed hope that the clarification would alleviate concerns among supporters.
However, the issue has reignited debates about the club’s partnership with a gambling sponsor. Leicester City’s chief executive, Susan Whelan, previously defended the decision, citing “extensive due diligence” to ensure alignment with the club’s values.
The controversy comes at a time when gambling sponsorships in football face growing ethical scrutiny. The Premier League is set to ban gambling companies from front-of-shirt sponsorships beginning in the 2026-27 season.
Balancing Financial Gain with Public Perception
Leicester City is one of 11 Premier League clubs to feature a betting company on their shirts this season, a move that has not sat well with some fans. Criticism over the club’s financial priorities, coupled with rising ticket prices, has fueled discontent among sections of the fanbase.
While BC.Game’s legal troubles may not directly impact the club’s finances, the association with a controversial sponsor could alienate supporters and tarnish the club’s image in the long run. As the appeal process unfolds, both Leicester City and BC.Game will be keen to mitigate any further damage to their reputations.