In the beginning of next year France will change its gambling policy’s on online gambling, as online casino operators try to secure a place in the opening gambling market, France officials warn online gambling and gambling advertisement rules have not yet changed.

An article in the French newspaper the Metro, by online gambling company Zeturf has attracted attention of French officials, who see the articles placed by the internet betting company as unauthorised advertisement, which could have consequences for future licenses of the gambling company. The full page in the Metro bought by Zeturf featured the Prix del’Arc de Triomphe horse race, and noted better pay-outs and odds at Zeturf’s. The online betting company claims it is just a press release, but Budget Minister, Eric Woerth said its obscured advertisement. France has made plans to open up its online gambling market and supply licenses to European competitors in the beginning of 2010. Online casinos are jumping to get a piece of the French gambling pie. The opening of the French online gambling market is expected to be the biggest in Europe. Woerth and his colleagues have been unyielding and denies any provider with a head start. Legislation against gambling advertisements will be carried out thoroughly, and provider who choose to ignore the rules will be remembered when it is time for licensing hearings. Woerth cited several gambling companies which attempted to make a move in the gambling market before the appropriate time.