ENADA 2026 – Responsible Gaming at the core of NOVOMATIC Italia’s “Usa la Testa” conference: prevention, consumer protection and technological innovation

On March 18, during ENADA Primavera, the conference “Il Gioco Responsabile come leva strategica di prevenzione a tutela del consumatore”(Responsible Gaming as a strategic lever for prevention and consumer protection), organized by NOVOMATIC Italia, took place. Moderated by journalist Daniel Della Seta, the event provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue among institutions, industry experts, and healthcare professionals, with a strong focus on legality and the prevention of Gambling Disorder (GD).

The discussion explored the factors that distinguish regulated gaming from illegal circuits, examined the risks and dynamics of Gambling Disorder, also through the contribution of psychiatrist Gianluca Bruti, who offered insights into the neurobiological aspects of addiction, and addressed the most effective tools for advancing Responsible Gaming practices.

Key topics included the role of information and prevention in countering Gambling Disorder, the evolution of Responsible Gaming strategies within the sector, the use of tools and technologies to support player protection, and the importance of transparent, ethical communication focused on people’s well-being.

Preview launch of the new “Usa la Testa” app

During the conference, NOVOMATIC Italia presented a preview of “Usa la Testa”, an innovative mobile app designed to promote player self-awareness, developed by the ADMIRAL Gaming Network and HBG Online Gaming licensees. Its debut in a prominent setting such as ENADA highlighted the Group’s commitment to investing in practical digital solutions that support prevention and responsibility.

In her speech, Mara Di Lecce, Marketing & Communication Director of NOVOMATIC Italia, stated: “The Usa la Testa mobile app represents a further step in our commitment to an increasingly advanced Responsible Gaming model. At NOVOMATIC Italia, we have chosen to go beyond regulatory requirements by investing in transparency, innovation, and player protection. This app has been developed with a clear objective: to provide each player with a simple and intuitive tool to better understand their gaming behavior, access relevant information, and keep gaming within the boundaries of a recreational and responsible activity. It does not judge or restrict, it supports. Responsible Gaming is a pact of trust, and this app aims to offer concrete support to everyone: players, operators, and the entire sector.”

Walter Zenga, Responsible Gaming Ambassador

Further underscoring the importance of this initiative, the event also featured Walter Zenga, legendary goalkeeper and coach, who now serves as NOVOMATIC Italia's Ambassador with a specific focus on Responsible Gaming.

In his address, Zenga said: “Throughout my career, I have learned that true success comes from balance: between instinct and discipline, between passion and awareness. In sport, as in life, it is not just about stepping onto the field, but doing so with the right mindset. The same principle applies to Responsible Gaming.

The values of sport - respect for rules, self-control, the ability to recognize one’s limits and to seek support when needed - are the same values reflected in this project. Usa la Testa helps maintain this balance, just as a good coach or a united team does for an athlete.

Being an Ambassador means putting my experience at the service of a simple yet essential message: gaming can be a form of entertainment, but only when approached with awareness. Supporting players along this path is a responsibility we all share.”

A moment of dialogue to shape the future of the industry

The panel concluded with contributions from political representatives, including a video message from Senator Elena Murelli (Social Affairs Committee) and Member of Parliament Saverio Congedo (Finance Committee), who emphasized the importance of the role played by legal operators.

The conference provided a comprehensive overview of the tools, initiatives, and prevention programs currently active in the sector, highlighting the crucial role of operators, institutions, and experts in promoting informed behavior. The Usa la Testa project represents a significant step forward in NOVOMATIC Italia’s journey toward a modern, regulated gaming ecosystem focused on responsibility and consumer protection. Through initiatives like this, the Group continues to strengthen its commitment to defining, and in some cases redefining, ndustry standards, placing responsibility at the heart of its development vision.

Learn more about “Usa la Testa - The responsible player app”: Link