LiveScore Malta is pulling its LiveScoreBet platform out of Bulgaria, citing regulatory challenges in Europe.
The announcement comes just under a year of local expansion, with the brand launching in the Eastern European country earlier in February.
Users looking to go on LiveScoreBet’s website are met with a message saying that the offer is no longer available in Bulgaria.
Customers are advised to reach out to the website’s support team for any queries regarding withdrawals. This is most likely the reason why LiveScore Malta has stated that all local operations will formally cease by the end of this year.
UK Budget fallout
One of the official reasons for the exit given by the company is the UK’s Autumn Budget, which as SBC News readers will know, significantly increased taxes on online gambling. In particular, the Remote Gaming Duty almost doubled from the previous 21%, which now stands at 40%.
This is due to affect many licensed operators active in the UK that have an online offer, one example of which is the recent decision of heritage brand William Hill to drastically reduce its global footprint in a move likely aimed at cutting expenses.
LiveScore is following the same formula, it seems, with its statement reading: “The refocusing of resources ensures LiveScore Group remains robust and agile for the future.”
Bulgarian tax also responsible
The regulatory landscape in Bulgaria has also contributed to the pullout, with the company stating that tax rises are potentially on the horizon.
As SBC News previously reported, Bulgaria’s own budget needs to fill a significant fiscal gap in national finances. A gambling tax increase was almost voted into law, with gambling firms needing to pay 25% on GGR compared to the previous fix rate of 20%.
However, mass protests against government corruption led to the resignation of former PM Rosen Zhelyazkov’s cabinet, and the budget being subsequently put on hold.
Regardless, LiveScore’s move proves that the gambling sector is keeping a close watch on regulatory developments, not only in Bulgaria but also across Europe – as increasing taxes was a big talking point for many EU governments throughout 2025.
The relationship between LiveScore and Bulgarian footballer Dimitar Berbatov is likely to continue, as the Manchester United legend is a brand ambassador for Europe rather for Bulgaria only.
“All impacted people have been informed and are now subject to a confidential consultation process, while an exercise is now underway to inform all LiveScore Bet customers in Bulgaria,” LiveScore concluded.