Nicolas Béraud Re-Elected as AFJEL President
Nicolas Béraud, founder and CEO of Betclic, has been re-elected as president of AFJEL, the French online gaming association. His second term comes as the industry faces tax increases, regulatory uncertainty, and rising concerns over illegal gambling.
Key Challenges Ahead in 2025
AFJEL has also appointed Alexandre Roos, founder and president of Winamax, as its new vice president. Winamax’s recent membership means AFJEL now represents all licensed French online gambling operators, broadening its scope across all verticals. Roos’s election is seen as a strategic move to ensure equal representation across different gaming segments.
The year ahead presents significant regulatory and financial challenges for France’s online gambling sector. In July, new tax rates will take effect, increasing the levy on online sports betting from 10.5% to 15%, while online poker will be taxed at 10%. FDJ United has projected a €50 million hit to its EBITDA, while Betclic expects a €20 million impact.
Despite these challenges, AFJEL remains committed to advocating for legal, ethical, and responsible gaming. The association has pledged to push for stronger measures against illegal gambling while promoting fair competition and enhanced player protection.
Stalled Plans for Online Casino Regulation
The French government had initially planned to introduce a regulated online casino market in 2025. However, opposition from land-based casino operators has delayed progress. Working groups began discussions on the topic in November, but there is currently no clear timeline for potential legislative changes.
Béraud reaffirmed AFJEL’s mission to protect players and combat the illegal market, highlighting the role of its members in upholding security standards and tackling cybercrime.
“I am honoured to be able to continue to speak for our members at such an important time for our industry. Now strengthened by the arrival of Winamax, AFJEL is the only professional association to represent online gaming tech companies. Its members are essential strategic partners in protecting players, fighting cybercrime and the scourge of the illegal market, and securing the digital space with demanding technological standards,” Béraud said.
Roos echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a strong regulatory framework to support gaming technology companies.
“I am very happy and honoured to have been elected Vice-President of AFJEL in order to support the actions of members to lay the foundations of a favourable framework for gaming tech companies, which are very strategic for the sector’s evolution,” he said.
Growing Concerns Over the Illegal Market
Last year, AFJEL raised concerns about the rising influence of unlicensed betting platforms. The association reported that its members saw lower-than-expected betting volumes for Euro 2024, with the legal market handling only half of the projected turnover.
Additionally, AFJEL warned that more French bettors now use unlicensed operators than licensed ones, with the regulated market experiencing a 25% decline in betting volumes compared to the 2022 World Cup.