EU Court to Rule on Lottoland Gambling Dispute
The Essentials at a Glance
A legal dispute between a German player and the Malta-licensed operator Lottoland has reached the European Court of Justice (ECJ). At the heart of the case is the question of whether German gambling laws are compatible with EU law. The decision could impact over one billion euros in player funds. Malta’s “Bill 55,” which protects its operators from foreign court rulings, is also under scrutiny.
Background of the Case
In 2021, a German player filed a lawsuit against Lottoland, alleging that the platform was made accessible to German users without holding a German license. The case was later taken over by lawyer Volker Ramge, who expanded it to include other players and operators.
The central question now is: Was German gambling law—specifically the Interstate Treaty on Gambling valid until 2021—compatible with EU law? The focus is particularly on the freedom to provide services under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
The Path to the European Court of Justice
Both parties agreed to refer the case to the ECJ. The court is now examining whether the German licensing system unlawfully restricted the free movement of services within the EU. An opinion from the Advocate General is expected on July 10, 2025.
Malta Under Pressure: Spotlight on Bill 55
The case gains additional significance due to Malta’s “Bill 55.” Passed in 2023, the law allows Maltese courts to disregard foreign rulings against gambling operators licensed in Malta. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) defends the law as a protective measure for the internal market.
Germany’s gambling regulator GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States) takes a different view. It warns that Bill 55 may violate EU law and hinder cross-border legal enforcement. Austria has also joined the debate: the Commercial Court of Vienna has submitted questions to the ECJ regarding the legality of Bill 55.
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What’s at Stake?
If the ECJ rules that German gambling law or Malta’s Bill 55 violates EU regulations, numerous operators could be held liable. In Germany and Austria in particular, players may then be entitled to claim refunds—potentially amounting to billions of euros.
Our Assessment
The case before the ECJ marks a turning point for the European online gambling market. It highlights the tensions between national regulation and the European internal market. For you as a player, this means the legal situation remains in flux. Operators without a German license could face increasing pressure. At the same time, a ruling against Malta could weaken the protective mechanisms for gambling companies. We are closely monitoring developments and will keep you informed.
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