Gambling behavior during Euro 2024: Ghent University starts research
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16 Jul 2024 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Ghent University is starting an extensive study into people’s gambling behavior during the last European Football Championship. This research focuses on how much has been gambled and the influence of gambling advertising on players.
Sports betting and increase in gambling behavior during European Championships
Sports betting has been under a magnifying glass in Belgium for some time. Previous research by the Gaming Commission shows that major sporting events such as the European Championship or World Cup often lead to an increase in new gamblers. The stakes are also higher. In addition, these events are a risk factor for people who want to stop gambling. But in the end continue to play with all the consequences that entails.
217 million euros wagered during the 2022 World Cup
During the 2022 Football World Cup in Belgium, a total amount of 217 million euros was placed on bets online. At the time around 220.000 people mainly men placed bets every day.
Research into the impact of gambling advertising despite stricter rules
With a new study, Ghent University wants to gain insight into the factors that encourage gambling. Especially given the recently tightened gambling advertising rules in Belgium.
“Despite strict regulations, many gambling companies still advertise on social media. With this research we want to map the scope of communication of gambling companies and formulate policy recommendations.” Steffi De Jans, postdoctoral researcher at Communication Sciences.
Stricter rules for gamblers in Belgium?
The next Belgian government will probably take stricter action against gambling. At the beginning of June experts from the Supreme Health Council unanimously advocated stricter gambling rules. Including a total ban on gambling advertising and an increase in the minimum age for gambling to 21 years.
Would you like to participate in the study?
Would you like to participate in the Ghent University study on gambling behavior during the European Football Championship? You can find the survey here.