Tony Kelly gives us the Red Card treatment: The Gambling Files RTFM 137

In the year’s final episode, Fintan and Jon reflect on the highlights of the gambling industry in 2023 and discuss the controversy surrounding Entain. We also talk about the divisive announcement of Clarion's move and the upcoming ICE London 2024, plus the TV series After Life, and some personal stuff from the year [0:00 – 38:52].

Then the chaps are joined by former professional footballer Tony Kelly, who shares his journey from a promising career to the depths of gambling addiction. He discusses the challenges of the football environment, the void after retirement, and the role of faith in his recovery. Tony emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in gambling and highlights the need for operators to show social responsibility. He also reflects on the changes in gambling culture in football and shares his experiences playing against top players.

Tony has pioneered The Red Card Gambling Support Project as a response to the lack of education and awareness about gambling-related harm in the game. The funding landscape and the role of gambling operators in supporting initiatives is also discussed. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by professional football clubs in addressing gambling addiction and the potential impact on young athletes [38:53 – 1:57:07].

As ever, huge thanks to our sponsors, BWise Media and Clarion Gaming, without which none of this would be possible. So you can blame them if you want to blame anybody.