The year 2024 marks an alarming turning point: an overwhelming majority of online betting in Europe remains unreported. According to a recent study by Yield Sec, 71% of the European online gaming market, or approximately €80.6 billion, is controlled by unregulated offshore operators.
A dizzying rise in illegality
The figures reflect an unprecedented explosion: gross revenue from illegal platforms increased by 53% compared to 2023, while the regulated sector, despite its growth, grew “only” 30% to reach approximately €33.6 billion. The total market is exploding, with overall growth of 46% to reach €114.3 billion. These figures illustrate an uncontrolled rise in illegality, fueled by busy sports schedules and the proliferation of crypto-casinos, predictive betting, and unauthorized broadcasters.
Findings by region: glaring regional disparities
The study offers a striking regional analysis. In Eastern Europe, the proportion of the illegal market reaches 82%. Western Europe follows very closely with 72%, often criticized for its overly strict legislation. In the South (Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Malta, Cyprus), where rules are stricter, particularly regarding advertising, the gap is smaller but still worrying: 58% of the market escapes them.
A digital invasion: several thousand sites, millions of players
Illegal platforms are not isolated. YieldSec identifies approximately 6,200 illegal operators targeting the 27 Member States. Their audience is also massive: of the 118 million European players recorded in 2024, 81 million use unregulated services. This influence is all the more worrying given that it affects a large proportion of the European population.
Comparison to Belgium: National data confirms the disaster
The phenomenon is reflected at the local level. In Belgium, YieldSec observed that 16 of the 25 most visited gambling sites are illegal, accounting for 60% of total traffic. This observation underscores the scale of the problem across Member States. The lack of player protection against fraud or addiction remains a real threat.Europe is facing a silent crisis: that of an online gambling market escaping all regulation. With 71% of the market in illegal hands, the legal industry and governments must mobilize. The public, for its part, deserves increased protection, transparent access to safe platforms, and an environment where gaming does not rhyme with danger.