France faces calls to rein in sports betting as risks to players grow

Fédération Addiction has urged French authorities to tighten controls on sports betting. The organisation highlights rising concerns over excessive gambling behaviour among players. It warns that rapid market growth could worsen harm for vulnerable individuals. In the second half of 2025, France’s gambling sector reported €2 billion in gross gaming revenue. Around €1.2 billion of this came from approximately 600,000 high-risk players, who make up 60% of total revenue. Sports betting often serves as the first gambling experience for many young people.

Fédération Addiction has put forward several measures to address the issue. These include banning gambling sponsorships in sport and restricting advertising during live events. The group also proposes ending bonuses that encourage further wagering and stopping athletes from promoting betting products.

Additionally, the organisation wants regulators to gain broader enforcement powers. It seeks stronger penalties for operators that target vulnerable individuals. A pause on further expansion of the sports betting sector is also requested until better protections are established. The proposed measures aim to reduce gambling-related harm in France. Stricter controls on advertising, sponsorships, and promotions could limit exposure for vulnerable groups. Authorities will now consider the organisation’s recommendations for stronger oversight.