LiveScore Malta Limited has confirmed that its LiveScore Bet brand will withdraw from the Bulgarian market. The company plans to end operations by the close of the year. The decision places the company among a growing number of gambling operators reducing their market exposure. This follows major fiscal changes in the United Kingdom and continued uncertainty in parts of Europe.
The group stated that the move follows a review of how recent tax decisions and regulatory risks affect its wider business. Currently, LiveScore Bet operators in the United Kingdom, Ireland, as well as Nigeria, where it keeps focused on expanding its sportsbook offering within the LiveScore ecosystem.
LiveScore Malta says that withdrawal represents a strategic mitigation following the United Kingdom Government’s 2025 Autumn Budget, which introduced higher Remote Gaming Duty and General Betting Duty. The company also cited Bulgaria’s evolving regulatory outlook, including discussions of a potential tax increase aimed at addressing the country’s budget deficit.
According to LiveScore Group, the shift in focus will allow it to allocate resources more effectively. It will also help protect the company’s long-term position. The company stated the refocusing of resources ensures LiveScore Group remains robust and agile for the future.
Employees affected by the decision have already been notified and placed into a confidential consultation process. LiveScore has begun informing Bulgarian customers about the planned closure. They are also providing details on the steps that will follow before the end of the year.
The brand continues to position itself as a sportsbook integrated into the widely used LiveScore platform. The Bulgarian exit narrows LiveScore Bet’s geographic footprint. The company says its product serves established user relationships built through live sports coverage. It also emphasizes responsible betting tools for customers in its remaining markets.
The move of LiveScore comes as UK-facing operators respond to what industry figures describe as a tax shock. Companies across the sector have begun reviewing whether their current business models remain viable. This comes after Chancellor Rachel Reeves decided to raise gambling taxes beyond earlier expectations.
