Betfair Faces High Court Test Over Duty of Care This Week

High Court Case Brings Key Questions

Betfair is facing a major legal test in the High Court. The case concerns Luke Ashton, who died in April 2021. His widow, Annie Ashton, and other family members brought the claim. The hearing started on 4 June and may continue for three weeks.

The court will consider an important question — did Betfair owe Ashton a duty of care? The answer could affect future cases involving gambling harm. The case also looks at how companies respond when warning signs appear. It may help clarify where operator responsibility begins and ends.

What The Inquest Found

A coroner's inquest examined the events leading to Ashton's death. The findings were published in 2023. The inquest found Ashton suffered from gambling addiction before he died. It also found his gambling activity increased during that period.

However, Betfair reportedly classified him as a low-risk customer. That finding has become a key part of the case. The coroner raised concerns about several areas of player protection. These included risk monitoring systems and customer support measures.

The inquest found Betfair did not meaningfully interact with Ashton between 2019 and his death. That finding is now being examined by the court.

Main Issues In The Case

• Duty of care towards customers showing signs of harm

• Risk monitoring and detection systems

• Contact and support for customers

• Whether regulatory rules go far enough

Separate Dispute Over Regulatory Action

Following the inquest the UK Gambling Commission reviewed the coroner's report. However, it decided not to take further action against Betfair in 2025. Later Annie Ashton filed a judicial review challenge. She is challenging the regulator's decision to not take further action.

Betfair's parent company, Flutter Entertainment, said it was "sorry for the family. The company also strives to uphold high standards in safer gambling and customer protection.

Wider Focus On Gambling Harm

The hearing is one in a series of increasingly stringent gambling rules. New changes have been made, including online slot stake limits and enhanced customer verification. A new levy was also implemented to fund research, prevention and treatment. These changes are due to an increased awareness of the harm associated with gambling.

Beyond this case, regulators continue to examine company practices. In December 2025, Paddy Power Betfair received a £2 million fine over social responsibility failings.

Nevertheless, the current case may prove even more important. The ruling could help define whether companies have wider legal duties — beyond following regulations — when clear signs of harm appear.