Study Finds 30% Of Young People In Belgium Use Illegal Sportsbooks
A recent study conducted by Belgium’s Gambling Commission has unveiled alarming insights regarding the gambling habits of young adults in the country. DataSynergy’s research specifically targets individuals aged 18 to 30, revealing that a staggering 30% of this demographic engage in online sports betting through illegal websites.
The findings indicate that over 25% of those surveyed resort to illegal methods for wagering, particularly on both sports betting and games of chance such as slots. Within this group, 28% reported using illegal platforms, with 8% admitting to solely using these sites while 19% utilized a mix of legal and illegal options.
Prevalence of Illegal Sportsbooks Among Belgian Youth
Diving deeper into the specifics of sports betting, the study highlights troubling trends: 30% of young people have placed bets via illegal online platforms. Conversely, 22% reported exclusive participation in illegal online casino betting. Remarkably, 25% of 18 to 30-year-olds could name at least one illegal gambling site, with 9% identifying only illegal platforms and 16% acknowledging the use of both legal and illegal resources.
The allure of the illegal market has seemingly become the norm for Belgian youth, with three illegal websites making it to the top ten most frequented operators among 18 to 30-year-olds.
Legislative Changes Triggering Increased Illegal Activity
Belgium’s gambling landscape has undergone significant legislative changes, notably the strict advertising restrictions implemented in July 2023. In addition, a pivotal amendment is set for September 2024 when the minimum gambling age will increase from 18 to 21.
Furthermore, the Belgian Gambling Commission announced restrictions on sports clubs’ sponsorships, explicitly prohibiting front-of-shirt deals with gambling companies. However, alternative forms of partnership are still permissible, allowing logos to be featured in various capacities.
BAGO Exposes Rising Offshore Sportsbook Usage
The Belgian Association of Gaming Operators (BAGO) has brought attention to another concerning statistic: 25% of residents are now utilizing offshore sportsbooks. Chairman Tom De Clercq has underscored the ramifications of this trend, noting that 47% of individuals who previously self-excluded from gambling have returned, primarily through illegal offshore channels.
De Clercq warns, "We are on a slippery slope. Licensed gambling sites are governed by stringent regulations, aimed at promoting responsible gaming and safeguarding players. In contrast, illegal operators operate without oversight, leading to a rise in vulnerable groups engaging within this unregulated environment. Without intervention, Belgium risks losing control over its gambling market."
Stake, a well-known offshore operator, has emerged as a significant player in this space, even while holding an active license in Belgium. Consumer awareness of the brand experienced a remarkable surge, rising from 2% in 2023 to 4% in 2025.
Conclusion
The findings from these studies prompt a critical examination of Belgium’s regulatory framework. As trends in illegal gambling continue to evolve, it’s imperative for stakeholders in the gambling sector, including regulators, operators, and advocacy groups, to collaborate intensively. Implementing robust protective measures and enhancing public awareness are essential steps towards ensuring a safer gambling environment for young adults in Belgium.
Joe Lyons, a seasoned writer in the betting industry for GamblingIndustryNews, possesses extensive expertise in sports betting topics including horse racing, soccer, NFL, and NBA. His commitment to producing high-quality content contributes to informed discussions within the gambling community.
