The El Gordo Christmas Lottery will distribute prizes worth 2,702 million euros on December 22nd. If this amount were divided equally among all Spaniards, it would amount to more than 55 euros per capita.
Obviously something like this could never happen, among other things as not everyone can play the lottery. The Gambling Regulation Law of May 2011 stipulates who cannot participate in games of chance, including Gordo de Navidad.
The legislation arises from the need to establish “new regulatory mechanisms” that offer legal certainty to both operators and participants, “without forgetting the essential protection of minors”.
Minors under 18 are, therefore, the first group that is prohibited from participating in so-called games of “chance, betting or gambling and betting”, as stated in Article 6.2 of the law, relating to “objective and subjective” prohibitions.
access is prohibited even to those who have voluntarily requested it. These are generally peopel with gambling problems who are registered in the register of Bans of the Directorate General for the Regulation of Games of Chance – or the equivalent regional body – in order to prevent them from accessing the premises and participation in gambling.
Participants in any state lottery and betting games (Selae) through the official website of the organization, who are considered unable to “control themselves or maintain a balance”, are offered a temporary self-exclusion service.
this is a process through which the person with gambling problems can leave their gaming account blocked for a period of their choice among the pre-established ones.
Nor may persons who are barred by a final judicial decision participate in the Christmas lottery or any other game of chance.Nor ”the shareholders, owners, participants or principals of the gaming operator, its directors and employees directly involved in the development of the games”, as well as their spouses or persons with whom they live, ascendants and descendants in the first degree.
The ban extends to the president,councilors and directors of the National Gaming Commission,as well as their spouses or people with whom they live,to ascendants and descendants in the first degree and to all the staff of this body to whom the activity is attributed inspection and control. regarding gaming.
The law sets more specific limits for other groups, such as those linked to sports betting and who, thus, would be excluded from the ban on playing the Christmas Lottery. They are the following:
– Athletes, coaches or other direct participants in the event or sporting activity on which the bet is placed.
-The administrators of the participating sporting bodies and organizers of the event or sporting activity on which the bet is placed.
-The judges or referees who perform their functions in the event or sporting activity on which the bet is placed, and also the people who resolve appeals against their decisions.
What are the ancient origins of the El Gordo Christmas Lottery in Spain?
Interview with Gambling Law Expert: Understanding the El Gordo Christmas Lottery and Its Regulations
Time.news Editor: Welcome! We’re thrilled to have you here to shed light on the El Gordo Christmas Lottery and the regulations that govern it. as we approach December 22nd, the excitement surrounding this lottery, which is set to distribute an astounding €2,702 million in prizes, is palpable. Can you start by sharing what makes the El Gordo such a unique event in Spain?
Expert: Absolutely! The El Gordo Christmas Lottery, held annually in Spain, is iconic not just for its massive prize pool but also for its cultural significance. This lottery has been a tradition since 1812, and it’s more than just a game of chance; it’s a communal festivity. The idea that if the prize pot were divided, it could provide over €55 per capita for all spaniards certainly adds to its allure, even though in reality, not everyone can participate.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of participation, what are the primary regulations surrounding who can and cannot play the El Gordo lottery?
Expert: The Gambling Regulation Law established in May 2011 outlines who is excluded from participating in such games. Key groups prohibited include minors under 18, individuals with gambling problems who have registered in the Directorate General for the Regulation of Games of Chance’s ban list, and those barred by a judicial decision. This regulation aims to provide protection to vulnerable populations while maintaining legal certainty for operators and players.
Time.news Editor: That’s insightful. Can you elaborate on the specific measures that are in place to support those with gambling problems?
Expert: Certainly! The law incorporates several protective measures, including a temporary self-exclusion service. This allows individuals who recognize their gambling issues to block their gaming accounts for a designated period, helping them regain control. The importance of this cannot be overstated, as it prioritizes the responsible enjoyment of gaming activities.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like the legislation does a commendable job addressing the issue of responsible gambling. However, I noticed that certain individuals, such as athletes involved in events related to sports betting and gaming operators, are also prohibited from participating in El Gordo.Can you explain why this distinction exists?
expert: Yes, the distinction is rooted in the principles of fairness and integrity in gaming. Individuals closely linked to the betting events—like athletes, coaches, and referees—are excluded from participating in order to prevent any conflicts of interest or potential exploitation of inside knowlege. This aims to maintain a level playing field and uphold the credibility of both the lottery and associated betting activities.
Time.news Editor: With such strict regulations in place, what advice would you offer to our readers who are considering participating in the El Gordo Christmas Lottery this year?
Expert: My advice would be to approach the lottery with a clear understanding of both the excitement and the risks. Ensure you’re aware of the regulations and your eligibility. Participation should be viewed as a form of entertainment rather than a fail-proof investment strategy. Importantly, if you feel you have a gambling problem, seek help and utilize the self-exclusion options available. Ultimately, enjoy the spirit of the lottery while being financially responsible.
Time.news Editor: Excellent points! As the excitement builds leading up to December 22nd, it’s essential for participants to stay informed and play responsibly. Thank you for your insights on the El Gordo Christmas Lottery and the regulatory landscape surrounding it.
Expert: Thank you for having me! It’s significant for people to understand the implications and regulations of such a significant event. Happy holidays!