The Explosion of Online Sports Betting

Online Sports Betting Soars in France, Fueled by Major Sporting Events

France’s online sports betting market experienced a significant surge in 2024, driven by a calendar packed with major sporting events like the European Football Championship and the Paris Olympic Games. According to the annual report from the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), the total amount wagered exceeded €10 billion, marking a more than 20% increase.

The revenue generated by online sports betting sites reached nearly €1.8 billion, setting a new record for gambling in France. This figure represents the gross gaming revenue (GGR), which is the amount retained by the operators after paying out winnings.

Explosive Growth Over the Past Decade

Data from the ANJ reveals the dramatic growth of online sports betting in France over the last ten years. The GGR has increased from €228 million in 2014 to €1.76 billion in 2024. This represents an eightfold increase.

Several factors contribute to this trend. More people are participating in sports betting, and existing players are spending more money. The average annual spending per player has risen from under €200 in 2014 to €360 last year.

Young Adults Drive the Market

The ANJ’s figures also highlight that young adults are a key demographic for sports betting operators. Approximately 65% of sports bettors are between 18 and 34 years old, with men making up 85% of this group. The 18-25 age group is experiencing the fastest growth, with a 6.2% increase between 2023 and 2024.

The rise in online sports betting reflects a broader trend of increased engagement with digital entertainment and the growing popularity of sports wagering among younger generations.