Norsk Rikstoto retains horseracing betting monopoly

Norway’s government confirms the operator will retain the exclusive rights to offer horse race betting after its current contract expires in 2021.

Norway.- Norsk Rikstoto will retain its status as the horse racing betting monopoly in Norway after its current concession expires in 2021.

The government had been considering transferring the monopoly from Norsk Rikstoto to national lottery Norsk Tipping, but has ruled that the current model and system for betting on horse racing will remain.

“Our main concern is to ensure a responsible and coherent gaming policy,” Norway’s Minister of Culture, Abid Raja, said.

“In connection with the development of new gambling laws, it was therefore natural to consider whether the organisation of horse race betting in a separate gaming company is the best solution for doing this.”

“After a thorough overall assessment, we have concluded that the horse race betting should remain under the control of Norsk Rikstoto. At the same time, we will take some steps in the new gambling law to increase accountability and public control of horse race betting.”

Agriculture and Food Minister, Olaug Bollestad, said the Ministry supported the decision to allow Norsk Rikstoto to retain the monopoly after 2021.

“The equine industry is important to many across the country, and the horse organisations have expressed a strong desire to have their own gaming company dedicated to horse race betting,” Bollestad said.

“We believe that the model we have today is both suitable for ensuring a responsible gambling policy for the future, while at the same time this solution is for the best for Norwegian equestrian sport,” he added.