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Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission (AGCO) has fined Score Media and Gaming, the operator of theScore Bet, CAD 200,000 for failing to honor two cash-out offers accepted by a bettor. The company has the option to appeal before the Licence Appeal Tribunal within 15 days. This incident highlights a crucial aspect of sports and esports betting: once a player accepts a cash-out offer, it should be upheld.
The AGCO deemed this behavior a violation of Ontario’s player-protection standards. According to Standard 4.07, gaming information must not deceive players by offering outcomes or prizes that cannot be fulfilled. The penalty imposed by the regulator is independent of any other avenues the affected player may pursue to address their individual grievance.
This issue extends beyond a single sportsbook and bet. Cash-out options are integral to the player experience and must be more than just numbers on a screen. This fundamental principle of compliance applies to all regulated wagering platforms, including those that offer esports markets. Ontario’s strict regulations on betting promotions and operator responsibilities further emphasize the importance of adhering to these standards.
Two accepted offers, one losing parlay
The incident unfolded on March 14, 2025, when a bettor placed a CAD 1,000 multi-leg parlay encompassing NHL, NBA, and NCAA basketball games scheduled for that day. Successfully predicting all outcomes could have resulted in a payout of over CAD 1 million. After all but one leg of the parlay won, theScore offered CAD 380,000 to settle the bet prematurely.
Although the player accepted the offer, theScore reneged, citing fluctuating odds. Subsequently, a second cash-out offer of CAD 100,000 was presented and accepted by the bettor, only to be disregarded again. The final leg of the parlay failed, leaving the player empty-handed. The AGCO registrar determined that neither offer was feasible as presented.
From a bettor’s perspective, the distinction is clear: while a lost parlay is a standard risk, an accepted cash-out offer that is not honored presents a different issue. Regulated operators are expected to accurately present opportunities and fulfill them as promised. Ontario’s comprehensive regulations governing betting operators, including those offering esports options, underscore the importance of compliance.
The penalty is not the player’s payout
The AGCO has levied a CAD 200,000 fine on Score Media and Gaming. Dr. Karin Schnarr, the AGCO’s CEO and registrar, emphasized that operators must ensure that the gaming opportunities they offer are accurate and can be honored. The regulator views this penalty as holding the operator accountable for failing to fulfill a commitment and misleading players regarding a gaming opportunity.
It is important to note that this penalty does not entitle the bettor to either of the cash-out amounts. The AGCO’s enforcement action is distinct from other methods available to players seeking resolution for individual disputes. Similar player-protection obligations have been highlighted in previous cases of betting-operator compliance.
A hearing window, but no confirmed next move
Score Media and Gaming have the option to request a hearing before the Licence Appeal Tribunal within 15 days. It remains unclear whether the company will contest the penalty or if the bettor will pursue alternative resolution options. The key takeaway for players is that the cash-out offer should represent a genuine, actionable opportunity.