The NCAA will postpone the implementation of its recently approved sports betting policy until at least 22 November.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) confirmed on Tuesday (28 October) that it will postpone the implementation of its recently approved sports betting policy until at least 22 November, while a federal legislator has called for an investigation.
The NCAA made the announcement following pushback from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and concerns raised by lawmakers.
The new policy, once enacted, would allow college athletes and athletic department staff to place bets on professional sports, though betting on college events would remain prohibited.
The delay was announced just hours after the SEC sent a formal letter to the NCAA outlining its opposition to the policy change.
Under NCAA rules, Division I member schools have 30 days to vote to rescind a policy if it passes with less than 75% approval from the Division I Council.
The proposal allowing betting on professional sports received below that threshold earlier this month, triggering the 30-day review window.
The NCAA did not provide a specific reason for delaying implementation but confirmed that the pause would remain in effect while it reviews feedback from member schools.
The organisation emphasised that the existing rules barring athletes from betting on any sports would remain in place until the review period concludes.
The SEC’s letter expressed concern that the proposed change could weaken existing protections surrounding sports integrity and athlete welfare.
It also comes amid heightened tension regarding match-fixing in the US.
Conference leaders argued that allowing athletes to wager on professional sports could create compliance challenges for schools and increase the risk of rule violations.
NCAA faces scrutiny over decision
Shortly after the SEC’s letter became public, Rep. Brett Guthrie of Kentucky criticised the NCAA’s planned rule change and pledged oversight action.
Speaking on the “Ruthless” podcast on Thursday, Guthrie said he intended to hold the NCAA accountable for the policy shift.
He also sent a letter to NCAA president Charlie Baker questioning the decision-making process behind the proposal.
In his correspondence, Guthrie said the timing of the NCAA’s move raised questions about the integrity of college sports, particularly given the association’s prior statements about the risks of gambling exposure for young adults.
He wrote that the NCAA had “previously expressed concern about the pervasiveness and potential harm of sports betting on young adults,” yet was now preparing to permit student-athletes to bet on professional leagues.
Guthrie also highlighted potential conflicts of interest, noting that many college athletes maintain personal or professional relationships with individuals in professional sports.
He asked the NCAA to clarify how oversight would be enforced to prevent misuse of inside information or breaches of integrity.
The NCAA has not yet responded publicly to Guthrie’s letter or confirmed whether additional adjustments to the policy will be made before 22 November.
The delay marks the latest in a series of policy reviews as the NCAA evaluates its approach to sports betting in response to expanding legalisation across multiple US states.
As of now, all NCAA athletes and staff remain prohibited from placing any sports wagers under the current rules, pending the outcome of the ongoing review process.
The organisation has said it will provide further updates once the 30-day period concludes and member institutions complete their feedback submissions.