Gambling brands can now buy YouTube’s top ad slot
From 21 October 2026, licensed online gambling operators will be able to book YouTube Masthead campaigns after Google updated its advertising policy.
Why the Masthead matters
The Masthead is the most visible ad position on YouTube, placed at the top of the home feed. It adapts to desktop, mobile and TV, and its video ads normally play without sound.
- Starts 21 October 2026.
- Google's gambling ad policy still applies.
- Advertisers need a licence or certification in each target market.
Strict conditions remain
Only operators that follow Google's gambling rules and hold a licence or certification for every country they target can buy the slot. Unlicensed casinos are excluded.
Context
The change lands while pressure on gambling advertising grows in the UK, Australia and the US, and while Meta is criticised – including by the UK Gambling Commission – over illegal ads. Read more in our report on Paf's pilot with Meta.
Our take
Big ads do not mean better offers. Always read the wagering terms first – see our guides to no wagering bonuses and no deposit bonuses.
Source: SBC News, 9 October 2026. This article is based on publicly reported news; our editors summarised and rewrote it for Canadian readers.