BWIN has suspended its operations in Portugal following last September’s court ruling which outlawed the activities of online bookmakers.
Last week the original court ruling, which followed a complaint by the Portuguese Association of Casinos and the Santa Casa da Misericórdia, was upheld by the Porto Court.
BWIN had sponsored the Football League Cup for two years and this season the income to clubs was estimated to be in the region of €4 million – a lifeline to many struggling clubs.
A final decision by the Court of Appeal is expected in February.
Olhanense President Isidoro Sousa said: “This is a great loss to the smaller clubs at a time when we are being squeezed from all angles with lower attendances and a rise in IVA.
“BWIN were one of the few companies from abroad bringing money into Portuguese soccer. It is time for the government to step in and resolve the situation.”
