Youtube will no longer accept advertisements with certain controversial content for its most prominent and largest advertising space on the homepage.

This includes advertisements for the sale of alcohol and prescription drugs, advertisements for gambling but also advertisements with political content, reported the US portal "Axios".

A Google spokesman confirmed the report on Tuesday.

The restrictions concern the so-called masthead (lead story).

This is a clearly visible rectangle at the top of the YouTube homepage.

The masthead is often the most expensive and sought-after advertising unit on the platform.

The Google spokesman said his company regularly reviews advertising requirements to make sure they address the needs of advertisers and users alike.

"Today we're updating these requirements to limit the categories of ads allowed to run on the Youtube masthead inventory." It is believed that this update will result in a better experience for users.

Under the new guidelines, ads showing gambling-related content - including sports betting and casino games - will no longer be accepted immediately.

The ban also applies to advertisements that advertise the sale of alcohol, as well as to so-called branding advertisements for alcoholic beverages that do not explicitly refer to the sale.

With regard to political and election advertising, these guidelines would be consistently enforced, regardless of political affiliation, stressed the spokesman.

The update only affects the masthead inventory.

"Advertisers have access to a variety of advertising options and formats as long as they adhere to our guidelines."