The Stoke-on-Trent online gaming giant Bet365 has announced that it will exit the Russian market immediately. Despite the fact that it gave no specific reasons, the timing points to a protest movement for the invasion of Ukraine. New registrations and new deposits were suspended a few days ago and members have to withdraw any remaining balance until March 15. Moreover, affiliates and partners are told to refrain from using the company's logo in any promotional campaigns.
On the same note, the Kyiv-founded gambling operator Parimatch has also ceased all operations in Russia commenting: ''We have always been proud of the Ukrainian roots of our company, and in these difficult times we are even more overwhelmed by love for our native country. We strongly condemn the military aggression against Ukraine and try to do everything possible to help Ukraine.'' The brand has also donated UAH 30 million ($1 million) to the Ukrainian Armed Forces and plans to raise a fund for the same purpose. Even though the ongoing conflict, Parimatch has stated that salaries and new recruitment will remain unaffected.
A large number of sports organizations like FIFA, UEFA and the NHL have announced sanctions against Russian clubs. The final of the 2022 Champions League, originally scheduled for Saint Petersburg has relocated for Stade de France, Paris and more similar actions might follow.