Aston Villa Supporters’ Trust have responded to the club’s new partnership with BK8.
Villa announced a multi-year partnership with the online sportsbook and casino company earlier today. BK8 will be the new principal and front of shirt partner ahead of the new 2023/24 season.
A statement released by the Villa Supporters’ Trust read: “The Aston Villa Supporters’ Trust is highly disappointed with the Club’s announcement of a Principal Partnership with BK8 as its front-of-shirt sponsor for the next three seasons.
“In January, several Villa fan groups put together a joint statement expressing concerns over the reported discussions with BK8, highlighting the social and mental health harms caused by problem gambling, with over 400 gambling suicides annually in the UK and millions more harmed. We also expressed concerns about BK8’s misogynistic marketing practices and the reversal of the Club’s stance on not having a front-of-shirt gambling sponsor.
“At the time, we were given assurances over the Club’s due diligence process and advised that the misogynistic marketing practices were that of a BK8 affiliate. Though we acknowledge the commercial reality, we sadly feel that the Club has failed to listen to the legitimate concerns of fans about the role of gambling sponsorship in sports.
“Furthermore, as part of the agreement, BK8 will contribute a portion of the sales of the third shirt to a local charity. Whilst we welcome funding for good causes, it should not come at the expense of others. Similarly, whilst we understand fans, players and Club staff alike want Villa to be as successful as possible, that should not come at the expense of exposing fans to the exploitative practices of gambling operators, especially during a cost-of-living crisis.
“The BK8 agreement is a cynical last-minute attempt to scoop the financial gains ahead of the voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsors taking effect from the 2026-27 season. The Trust sincerely hopes that the Club, under the leadership of newly appointed Global President of Business Operations – Chris Heck, will be guided by fan representation in future matters.”
