Finska Splare Utesluts: Veikkaus vs. ATG
- HELSINKI (AP) — recent changes in finnish gaming regulations have led to disruptions for trot racing fans, particularly concerning access to swedish racing events.
- Further changes are planned, including the replacement of the V75 round on May 4, which features the prestigious Finlandia-Ajo race, with a new "Grand Slam 75" game format.
- The shift stems from a disagreement between Veikkaus, the Finnish national betting agency, and ATG, it's Swedish counterpart.
Finnish Gaming Restrictions Impact Trot Racing Enthusiasts
HELSINKI (AP) — recent changes in finnish gaming regulations have led to disruptions for trot racing fans, particularly concerning access to swedish racing events. The restrictions, which began April 1, have prevented Swedish customers from participating in or viewing Finnish races.
Further changes are planned, including the replacement of the V75 round on May 4, which features the prestigious Finlandia-Ajo race, with a new “Grand Slam 75” game format.
Disagreement Over Licensing Leads to Changes
The shift stems from a disagreement between Veikkaus, the Finnish national betting agency, and ATG, it’s Swedish counterpart. Veikkaus reportedly sought an extension of their current agreement until 2030. ATG declined, citing anticipated changes in the Finnish licensing market and its plans to collaborate with Suomen Hippos, the Finnish trotting association, in the future.
Veikkaus recently discontinued the availability of V86 games,a popular form of betting,with little advance notice.
Gustaf “Gusse” Häger, a well-known gaming expert and commentator for Finnish trot-TV, expressed his disappointment. “It’s a shame. Everyone loses with this decision; it’s wholly idiotic,” he told reporters.
Uncertainty Surrounds Future Gaming Options
veikkaus attributes the removal of V86 to its desire to invest in its own “V65XL” game, offered on Wednesday evenings with a row price of five kronor.
Häger fears that othre gaming formats, including V75, could also be affected. “We don’t know anything about next week,” he said. “Everyone is entitled to their own opinion,but I have a very bad feeling about this. It’s like going to a restaurant and only having one item on the menu.”
When asked if finnish players could still participate in V86, Häger responded, “I don’t know if anyone has found a solution. Relying on a friend in Sweden to submit bets isn’t a long-term solution due to identification requirements. Transferring winnings, especially if you win the pot alone, would also be elaborate.”
A Passion for Trot racing
Häger’s interest in trot racing began in the 1970s. In the late 1980s, he would drive ten hours round trip from his hometown of Nykarleby, Finland, to Haparanda, sweden, to place bets.
He is reluctant to resume those long journeys, despite the possibility. ”You can submit games in Åland if you physically go there, but it will be a two-day trip by boat. It’s not feasible,” said the 58-year-old.
“Moving to Sweden and finding a job related to trot racing is the only option I see,” Häger concluded. ”Playing via Åland isn’t a viable option for someone living in Ostrobothnia; it would essentially be a three-day journey.”
Gaming Conflict Imperils Finnish Trotting,Swedish Games at Risk
Veikkaus Considers Cutting Swedish Gaming Options
A schism between Swedish and Finnish gaming entities threatens to negatively impact the finnish trotting industry. Veikkaus, the Finnish gaming company, is considering reducing or completely eliminating Swedish game offerings, perhaps as early as this spring.
Jarkko Nordlund, who oversees sports betting, casino games, and horse racing at Veikkaus, confirmed the possible changes to Travronden.
Hopes for Resolution Amidst Boycott Threats
Gustaf “Gusse” Häger, a long-time presence on television providing Swedish trotting insights, expresses concern over the situation. Despite the current difficulties, Häger remains optimistic that a resolution can be found.
“I am a positive person and hope that a solution will be able to get rid of so we can play on what we want. If only all the parties involved can shake hands and not think about themselves but for everyone’s best,” Häger stated.
Häger also acknowledged potential backlash from players: “I know that many people intend to carry out a boycott against the gaming company Veikkaus.”
Impact on Finnish Trotting
The potential reduction in Swedish gaming options raises concerns about the future of Finnish trotting.
“Clearly it has a negative impact,” Häger said, regarding the potential consequences for the sport.
