TLDR France’s Fédération Addiction has put forward 15 proposals to tighten sports betting rules ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Proposals include bans on gambling sponsorships, advertising during live matches, and athletes appearing in betting promotions Around 600,000 people in France are estimated to be gambling excessively, accounting for roughly 60% of gross gaming revenue France’s gambling sector generated €2 billion in gross gaming revenue in the second half of 2025 alone The group wants France to pause any further expansion of sports betting until stronger protections are in place
One of France’s largest addiction support networks is calling on lawmakers to tighten sports betting rules before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off.
Fédération Addiction has put forward 15 proposals targeting how gambling is promoted and sold in France. The group wants action before another major tournament drives a fresh surge in betting activity.
The last World Cup saw online wagers in France approach €600 million during the tournament. That was more than half again the amount staked during the previous edition.
With another month-long tournament about to begin, the organization says the time to act is now.
What the Proposals Would Change
The proposals call for bans on gambling sponsorships in sport, restrictions on advertising during live matches, and an end to promotional bonuses designed to push players to bet more.
They would also prohibit athletes and sporting figures from appearing in betting promotions.
Fédération Addiction argues that betting companies have become deeply embedded in sports culture. Through sponsorship deals, social media campaigns, and athlete partnerships, wagering is increasingly presented as a natural part of watching sport.
The group says younger men, including those from lower-income communities, are being specifically targeted by operators. There is also concern that teenagers are being exposed to gambling