LiveScore Group has confirmed it will officially cease operations in Bulgaria, withdrawing its LiveScore Bet brand from the market less than a year after its debut.
The decision marks a rapid turnaround for the operator, which launched in the country just ten months ago with high aspirations, headlined by the signing of former Premier League star and local legend Dimitar Berbatov as its European brand ambassador.
Despite the initial marketing push, the company has announced that it will formally end its activities in the region by the conclusion of 2025.
Regulatory and Fiscal Pressures
The operator cites a “double hit” of fiscal pressures as the primary driver for this move. The decision is heavily influenced by domestic policy changes in the United Kingdom, specifically the 2025 Autumn Budget, as well as looming financial uncertainties within Bulgaria itself.
“The decision is a strategic mitigation following the UK government’s 2025 Autumn Budget, which saw significant increases to both Remote Gaming Duty and General Betting Duty,” LiveScore explained in a statement.
However, the pressure is not solely imported. The company noted that the local landscape presents its own risks. “Furthermore, the exit decision considers the uncertainty in Bulgaria’s own regulatory landscape, with a potential tax rise on the horizon to reduce the national budget deficit.”
Refocusing Resources
This move is part of a broader consolidation strategy to ensure the long-term stability of the wider group. By cutting ties with Bulgaria, LiveScore Bet aims to protect its core operations.
“The refocusing of resources ensures LiveScore Group remains robust and agile for the future,” the statement continued.
The company has already initiated a confidential consultation process for all impacted employees. Simultaneously, an exercise is underway to inform Bulgarian customers regarding the closure of their accounts and the return of funds.
A Pattern of Consolidation
This departure follows a trend of market rationalization for the group. In November 2024, LiveScore Bet withdrew from the regulated Netherlands market to focus its efforts elsewhere. Following the Bulgarian exit, the operator will concentrate on its remaining strongholds in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Nigeria.
