Taking bets in Greece is presently under monopoly control of OPAP, a public company with the government holding 34.4%, but it has been thought that there will be some form of gaming deregulation in the medium term. With that possibility of the opening of Greek betting markets William Hill two years ago signed an agreement with Greek Demco Group to monitor the regulatory position and actively pursue opportunities arising from any deregulation in Greece.

At the time of the announcement William Hill CEO David Harding stated, “With a population of 10 million people and a passion for sport, a deregulated Greece would offer an attractive betting market. When the time is right, this agreement will allow us to combine our skills in sports betting with Demco Group’s excellent track record in building successful businesses within Greece.”

It is now reported that William Hill has applied to the Greek government for a licence to open betting shops in Greece. Applications have been made both as a European company wishing to operate in a EU country under the free movement of services and for a Greek licence. The CEO of monopoly OPAP has said that William Hill will not be granted a licence, but the UK firm will take its case to the European courts if its application is rejected. (E-04.13.07)

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