Using prizes legally: rules, terms, and fair play guidelines
By Dirk Menkveld on Monday, February 9, 2026
Prizes and legality: keep it simple
Prizes can add excitement to a pool. But you should set rules first. You should also check local laws. Laws can change by country, and even by region.
On GoKoppa, Fantasy Football (is Prediction Game in English) means you predict match results. You do not pick players. This matters. A prediction game can still involve money or prizes, so you should plan it with care.
Decide what type of prize you offer
Start with a clear prize plan. Pick one of these common options:
- Free-to-play + prize from the organiser
This is often the simplest. No one pays to enter. - Group buy-in + shared prize pot
Everyone pays a set amount. Winners get a share. - Non-cash prizes
Like a kit, a book, or a gift card.
Keep prizes sensible for your group. Big prizes can bring big problems.
Write clear terms before anyone joins
Short terms help everyone. Put them in one place. Keep the same terms for all players.
Include these basics:
- Who can join (age, country, and any limits)
- How to enter (free or paid, and the deadline)
- Scoring rules (what earns points, and how ties work)
- Prize list (exact prizes and how many winners)
- Prize delivery (when and how you pay or send prizes)
- Refund rules (if a match is postponed, or a player drops out)
- Changes rule (say you will not change rules after the start)
Tip: If you do change anything, stop the pool and restart it. Do not change rules mid-way.
Fair play rules that stop arguments
Fair play keeps the game fun. Use simple rules that block cheating.
Add rules like these:
- One account per person
- No sharing logins
- No bullying or pressure to pay
- No “insider” deals with the organiser
- The organiser cannot edit picks after the deadline
- Public scoring view for the group (when possible)
Also set a clear deadline for picks. For example: “Picks close 10 minutes before kick-off.”
Handle money with care (if you use buy-ins)
If people pay to enter, treat it like a shared group activity. Be open.
Good practice:
- Say the entry fee in one line (example: “€10 per person”)
- Say where funds are held (separate account or trusted holder)
- Say how you will pay winners (bank transfer, PayPal, etc.)
- Keep a simple record of who paid
- Do not take a hidden cut unless you state it
If you plan to earn money from running pools, get legal advice. Rules can be strict in some places.
For a plain-language guide to gambling law basics in one country, you can read this resource from the UK Gambling Commission.
Compliance checklist: quick and practical
Use this checklist before you launch:
- Age check: Set an age limit. Follow local rules.
- Privacy: Collect only what you need (like name and email).
- Data safety: Do not share player details without consent.
- Taxes: Some prizes may have tax duties. Tell winners to check.
- Local law: If in doubt, keep it free-to-play.
If your group spans countries, take the safest route. Free entry is often safer.
Simple prize ideas that stay low-risk
If you want fun without stress, try:
- Bragging rights + a small trophy
- A meal paid by the organiser (set a budget cap)
- A charity donation in the winner’s name (agree first)
- Small gift cards with clear value
Small prizes reduce disputes. They also reduce legal risk.
Final tips for a smooth pool
- Put all rules on one page.
- Use short words and short sentences.
- Start on time and keep deadlines firm.
- Share results often.
- Keep the tone friendly and fair.
Prizes should add fun, not drama. Clear terms, basic compliance checks, and fair play rules will help your pool run well.