Global Sports Betting Revenue by Country: A Comprehensive Overview
Sports betting has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar global industry, contributing significantly to national economies through taxation, licensing, and tourism. While regulations vary from one jurisdiction to another, some countries have positioned themselves as major players in the sports betting sector due to favorable laws, high consumer participation, and robust digital infrastructure. This article explores the countries generating the highest sports betting revenues, the factors behind their success, and the role of government oversight.
United States
Since the 2018 repeal of PASPA (Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act), sports betting has rapidly expanded across the United States. As of 2025, more than 35 states have legalized sports wagering, either online, retail, or both. The American Gaming Association reports that the annual sports betting handle surpassed $120 billion, with gross gaming revenue (GGR) exceeding $10 billion. New York, New Jersey, and Nevada lead in terms of state revenue, each generating over $1 billion annually. The proliferation of mobile apps and aggressive sportsbook advertising have been key growth drivers.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom remains a cornerstone of regulated sports betting. With a mature market regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, the industry contributes more than £2.5 billion annually in GGR. Betting shops, online sportsbooks, and betting exchanges such as Bet365, William Hill, and Ladbrokes dominate the landscape. Football (soccer) is the most bet-on sport, followed by horse racing and tennis. The UK’s strong regulatory framework and history of legal betting culture support consistent revenue generation.
Australia
Australia has one of the highest per capita gambling rates in the world, and sports betting plays a major role. The Australian sports betting market generates over AUD 6 billion annually in turnover, with gross profits exceeding AUD 1.5 billion. Sports betting is legal in all states and territories, regulated by agencies such as the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Rugby, cricket, and Australian rules football are among the top sports wagered upon.
Italy
Italy boasts one of the largest gambling markets in Europe, with regulated sports betting generating over €1.5 billion in annual revenue. The Italian government tightly controls the market through licensing and taxation, with operators required to adhere to strict advertising rules. Football dominates the Italian sports betting scene, especially Serie A and UEFA competitions. The combination of a sports-loving population and established online platforms contributes to steady revenue growth.
France
Sports betting in France is legal and regulated by the National Gaming Authority (ANJ). The industry generates over €1 billion in annual revenue, mostly from online wagering. French operators such as FDJ (Française des Jeux) dominate the local market. Although online poker and casino gaming are restricted, sports betting remains a legal and profitable sector. Football, tennis, and basketball are the most popular sports among bettors.
Germany
Germany legalized online sports betting in 2021 under the State Treaty on Gambling. Since then, the market has grown rapidly, with estimated annual GGR exceeding €800 million. The sector is regulated by the Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL). German operators must follow stringent regulations, including deposit limits and advertising restrictions. The German Bundesliga fuels much of the betting interest, along with international football tournaments.
Canada
Canada legalized single-event sports betting in 2021, leading to significant market growth, especially in provinces like Ontario, which established its own regulated market. Annual sports betting revenues in Canada are estimated to exceed CAD 1 billion. Operators such as BetMGM, FanDuel, and local brands operate under provincial licenses. Hockey, football (NFL), and basketball are the most commonly bet-on sports. Continued provincial expansion is expected to fuel future revenue increases.
Brazil
Brazil is undergoing a major transformation in sports betting. While historically limited to offshore operators, recent regulatory reforms have paved the way for domestic licensing. The projected annual revenue from regulated sports betting is estimated to reach over BRL 10 billion in the next few years. Football, particularly Brazilian league matches and international tournaments, is the main driver of betting activity. Taxation and licensing models are being finalized, promising further growth.
Japan
In Japan, sports betting is highly restricted, limited primarily to public sports like horse racing, keirin (bicycle racing), and boat racing. Despite these limitations, the market generates over ¥800 billion annually in betting turnover. Private sportsbooks are illegal, but the government continues to explore potential liberalization, especially in the context of casino resort developments. A change in regulation could vastly increase future revenue.
South Africa
South Africa is the largest sports betting market in Africa, with GGR surpassing ZAR 3 billion annually. Regulated by the National Gambling Board, sports betting is legal and widely accessible both online and in retail outlets. Soccer, rugby, and cricket are the most popular sports. Mobile betting has seen rapid adoption due to high smartphone penetration and affordable data access.
Conclusion
The global sports betting industry continues to expand, driven by technological advancements, regulatory reforms, and changing consumer behaviors. While countries like the United States and the United Kingdom lead in raw revenue, emerging markets such as Brazil and Canada are poised for exponential growth. National governments are increasingly viewing sports betting as a legitimate source of tax revenue and employment, suggesting that the industry’s global footprint will continue to widen in the years ahead.
