Date: 29.10.2024

by Sebastian Warowny

Football Spurs Betting Growth in Belgium During 2024 Euros

Belgium’s national gambling regulator, the Kansspelcommissie (KSC), has released a report revealing significant trends in the country’s sports betting landscape during the 2024 European Championship and the Paris Olympic Games. The data highlights football’s dominant role in driving betting activities among Belgian players.

Increase in New Betting Accounts

In the lead-up to the 2024 Euros, an average of 787 new online betting accounts were created daily. This number surged by 31% to 1,031 accounts per day once the tournament commenced. After the championship concluded, the daily average of new accounts decreased sharply to 317, indicating the strong influence of major football events on player engagement.

Belgium’s national team’s journey to the Round of 16, where they were eliminated by France, significantly impacted betting behavior. The team’s performance spurred a noticeable increase in new player registrations and betting activity during the tournament period.

During the Paris Olympic Games from July 26 to August 11, the average number of new online betting accounts was 368 per day. While the Olympics did generate interest, the increase was less pronounced compared to the surge observed during the European Championship.

Financial Stakes Rise During Major Tournaments

Financial data from the KSC report shows that prior to the Euros, daily betting stakes averaged €6.5 million, with winnings averaging €5.98 million. During the championship, daily stakes rose to €8.6 million, and winnings increased to €7.54 million. These figures underscore the economic impact of major sporting events on the betting industry.

The peak of new daily players during the 2024 Euros was lower than in past events. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar saw a peak of 1,487 new players per day, and the 2020 Euros had 1,175. In total, the 2024 Euros attracted 31,481 new players, compared to 36,418 in the 2020 Euros and 43,122 during the 2022 World Cup.

Changes in Age Regulations and Demographics

The report highlights that 31.4% of new players during the Euros were aged between 21 and 29, while 25.79% were between 18 and 20. Notably, this summer was the last opportunity for 18 to 20-year-olds to legally place bets in Belgium. As of September, new regulations have raised the minimum gambling age to 21 for all forms of gambling.

The increase in the legal gambling age results from amendments to Belgium’s Gambling Act of 1999. Initiated by Green Party Minister Stefaan Van Hecke, the changes aim to strengthen compliance and player protection measures. Belgium now joins Greece as one of the only two European countries with a minimum gambling age of 21.

Football’s Dominance in Belgian Sports Betting

While the KSC report focuses on the Euros and the Olympics, it also encompasses data from other legally offered sports like basketball and horse racing. The overall trends confirm football’s position as the primary driver of sports betting in Belgium.

The findings shed light on the significant role major football tournaments play in influencing betting behavior.