France, known for its romantic cities, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, is also a popular destination for gambling enthusiasts. According to recent statistics from the French gaming authority ARJEL (Autorité de Régulation des Jeux en Ligne), the country has seen a significant increase in gambling activity in recent years. In this article, we will take a closer look at the gambling industry in France, examining the latest statistics and trends, as well as exploring the reasons behind its popularity. So, let’s dive in and discover more about gambling in France.
Overview of Gambling in France
Gambling has been a long-standing tradition in France, with records dating back to the 18th century. In the past, lotteries were the most popular form of gambling, but today, there are various forms of legal gambling available in the country. The main types of gambling in France include land-based casinos, horse racing, sports betting, and online gambling. The regulatory body responsible for overseeing the gambling industry in France is known as ARJEL. It was established in 2010 and is responsible for issuing licenses, enforcing regulations, and collecting taxes from gambling operators.
According to the latest data from ARJEL, the total gross gaming revenue (GGR) generated by the French gambling market in 2019 was €9.19 billion, an increase of 1.8% compared to the previous year. Out of this, the majority of the revenue (€4.3 billion) came from land-based casinos, followed by FDJ (Française des Jeux), the state-owned operator of lottery and sports betting, which generated €2.31 billion. The remaining revenue came from horse racing, online poker, and online sports betting.
Land-Based Casinos in France
France is home to around 200 land-based casinos, making it one of the largest casino markets in Europe. These casinos offer a variety of games, including slot machines, table games like blackjack and roulette, as well as poker. The majority of these casinos are located in popular tourist destinations such as Paris, Cannes, and Nice. According to the latest statistics from ARJEL, land-based casinos continue to be the most popular form of gambling in France, with over 20 million visitors per year.
One interesting trend in the French casino market is the increasing popularity of online casinos. While land-based casinos still dominate the market, there has been a steady growth in online casino revenue. In 2019, online casinos generated €1.35 billion in GGR, an increase of 27% compared to the previous year. This trend can be attributed to the convenience and accessibility of online casinos, which allow players to enjoy their favorite games from the comfort of their own home.
Casino Games and Revenue
Out of all the games offered in land-based casinos, slot machines are by far the most popular, accounting for more than half of the total GGR generated by casinos. In 2019, slot machines brought in €2.42 billion in revenue, followed by table games (€1.57 billion) and poker (€0.33 billion). It’s worth noting that poker has seen a decline in revenue in recent years, mainly due to the increased popularity of online poker.
Sports Betting in France
Sports betting is another popular form of gambling in France, with a long history dating back to the 19th century. Today, sports betting is regulated by ARJEL and is offered both in land-based establishments and online. Out of all forms of sports betting, football remains the most popular, with around €3.7 billion in bets placed annually. Other popular sports include basketball, tennis, and horse racing. In 2019, sports betting in France generated €1.5 billion in GGR, an increase of 9% compared to the previous year.
The Rise of Online Sports Betting
Similar to online casinos, online sports betting has seen a steady increase in revenue over the years. In 2019, online sports betting accounted for around 60% of the total sports betting market in France, generating €0.91 billion in GGR. This can be attributed to the convenience and ease of use of online platforms, as well as the wide variety of betting options available. The popularity of online sports betting is expected to continue growing in the coming years, with more operators seeking to enter the French market.
Horse Racing in France
Horse racing has been a popular sport in France for centuries, with the first racetrack opened in 1776. Today, there are around 250 racetracks spread across the country, attracting millions of spectators every year. In 2019, horse racing in France generated €2.36 billion in bets, making it the third-largest form of gambling in the country. This includes both on-course and off-course betting, with the majority of bets placed through FDJ’s Parions Sport platform.
The Impact of Covid-19 on Horse Racing
The outbreak of Covid-19 had a significant impact on the horse racing industry in France, with all races suspended from mid-March until early May. Despite this, the industry bounced back quickly, with races resuming behind closed doors in May. However, due to the restrictions on mass gatherings, racecourses have lost a considerable sum of money from ticket sales and hospitality packages. This has led to calls for the government to provide financial support to the industry to help it recover from the losses incurred during the lockdown period.
Online Gambling in France
Online gambling, which includes casino games, poker, and sports betting, has seen the most significant increase in revenue over the past decade. In 2019, online gambling generated €1.45 billion in GGR, an increase of 27% compared to the previous year. This growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of online platforms and the legalization of sports betting in 2010.
The Legalization of Online Gambling
Online gambling was legalized in France in 2010, making it one of the first countries in Europe to do so. The French government saw this as an opportunity to regulate the market and generate tax revenue from the industry. As a result, all forms of online gambling require a license from ARJEL to operate in the country. However, this strict regulation has led to fewer operators seeking licenses, resulting in a lack of competition in the market.
Trends and Future Outlook
The French gambling market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, with more players seeking out new forms of entertainment. One trend that is gaining popularity is live dealer games, which combine the convenience of online gambling with the atmosphere of a land-based casino. With technological advancements and improved internet speeds, live dealer games are becoming more popular, providing a unique and immersive experience for players.
Another trend worth mentioning is the increasing use of mobile devices for gambling. In recent years, there has been a steady rise in the number of mobile users participating in online gambling activities. This trend is expected to continue as more operators develop mobile-friendly platforms and apps, making it easier for players to access their favorite games on the go.
Reasons for the Popularity of Gambling in France
Several factors contribute to the popularity of gambling in France. One of the main reasons is the long-standing tradition of gambling in the country. For centuries, lotteries, horse racing, and casinos have been a part of French culture, making it a socially accepted form of entertainment. Additionally, the legal age for gambling in France is 18, making it more accessible for young adults.
Another reason for the growing popularity of gambling in France is the rise of online platforms. With the convenience and accessibility of online casinos and sports betting sites, more players are drawn to the industry, resulting in increased revenue for operators. Furthermore, the legalization and regulation of online gambling have made it a safer and more secure environment for players, further increasing its appeal.
Conclusion
Gambling has been an integral part of French culture for centuries, and today, it continues to be a popular form of entertainment in the country. With various options available, including land-based casinos, horse racing, sports betting, and online gambling, there is something for everyone in the French gambling market. With the industry poised for continued growth in the coming years, we can expect to see more innovations and developments in this exciting and ever-evolving industry.
