France Betting Guide – The Best French Betting Sites ✅

In this article, we will look at prominent French betting sites, the legal status of online betting in France, the essential aspects to consider when picking a betting site for French consumers, common payment methods, and much more. France is a country in Western Europe, and it has a long history with gaming. It is the home of roulette, blackjack, and the first regulated horse racing wagers. Despite this, sports betting in France experienced many ups and downs before becoming authorised and successfully regulated. Football is the most popular sport among bettors, and there are countless Frenche des Jeux (FDJ) betting businesses to help them. In addition, there are currently 17 licenced betting sites in France. More internet bookies are also available to local gamers; however, they are not licenced in their respective jurisdictions.

The Legal Framework of Gambling in France 📜

The ‘French Gambling Act’, Law No 2010-476, was the first legal document to govern the online business. It went into effect on May 13, 2010 and allowed foreign internet operators to seek for a local licence, opening the industry to competition. It also made an important step toward regulating the gambling sector by establishing an official regulatory body, the Autorité de régulation des jeux en ligne (ARJEL).

Only three types of internet gambling activities are authorised in France, according to the requirements of the French Gambling Act (sports betting, horse racing betting, and poker games). As a result, there are only three kinds of suitable licences. Online casino games in France, on the other hand, did not get licences. This was due to the fact that, like spread and exchange betting, they were deemed highly addictive by lawmakers.

Furthermore, previous to the regulation of the online gambling sector in 2010, sports betting and horse racing betting were controlled by the then-state-owned monopolies Française des Jeux (FDJ) and Pari mutuel urbain (PMU). Back in 2001, the state granted them both authorization to lawfully provide their services online. Although they continue to operate, they no longer appear to have a monopoly in the online betting France sector. Despite this, they continue to have a monopoly on the operation of land-based betting shops in the country.

Gambling is currently allowed in France, both online and in physical locations. Offline, the French can gamble on sports, race horses, play casino games, and play poker.

France, like numerous other European countries, attempted to restrict online gambling operators to only domestic enterprises and sites — no international operators. The European Union found this to be in violation of its regulations and requested that the French government renounce its gaming monopoly. They opened its market to overseas investors in 2009. However, this was a restricted approach that taxed businesses excessively.

The French Gambling Act of 2010 legalised all online sports betting, horse betting, and poker, based on the premise that these kinds of gambling require some level of skill. Other forms of gambling, like as slots, were prohibited because they were deemed too addictive. Betting online on pure chance games is still considered unlawful today.

COMPETITION AMONG OPERATORS 💥

Gambling in France is generally governed by a government monopoly, both online and offline. Different agencies are in charge of licencing and regulating various forms of gaming. They’ve had this monopoly for a long time, and there’s no sign that it’s going to be broken any time soon.

The government attempted to establish a similar monopoly online. However, the EU ruled that this was unjust. As a result, they began offering licences to worldwide corporations in 2009. However, a number of these enterprises have departed from the French market as a result of the government’s excessively high taxation. As a result of the decrease in international (legal) investment, the market is once again dominated by the government monopoly.

However, the international online market, which is technically illegal, should not be overlooked. Some French bettors are going to unlicensed overseas betting sites to place their bets, a problem that the French government has no control over.

French Betting Sites that are Licensed 💚

Local bettors can currently use the services of 17 licenced French sports betting sites. The new tax scheme for internet providers is largely to blame for the relatively small pool of licensees. That equates to 33.8 percent of their GGR plus 10.7 percent of their social security contributions. Adding another 10.7 percent to the National Centre for the Development of Sport brings the total to a mind-boggling 55.2 percent.

That, without a doubt, greatly reduces their prospective profits. Aside from registered internet bookies, French bettors can place their bets at any of the FDJ’s land-based betting shops, as well as any unlicensed bookie at their choice.

In France, there are unlicensed bookmakers. ⚠️

With so few online betting firms licenced by ANJ, it’s obvious that there are many more that don’t have a domestic licence. Nonetheless, despite the risk of fines, they continue to operate in the French market.

Those bookmakers can be reached directly via their.com website. If they are blocked, they should be accessible via mirror websites or a VPN. At the end of our study, you will find a list of all online bookmakers who accept French players.

Top bookmakers that have left the French market 🚨

Many foreign brands have left the French market due to the tight licencing system and high tax regime that remain in place. Bet365 France is one of the most well-known overseas bookmakers that has left the market without applying for a local licence. 22bet is another another renowned bookmaker that has exited the industry. 1xbet France has similarly halted operations and is still unavailable to local gamblers.

France Online Sports Betting ⚽

Football is by far the most popular betting sport in France. Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matchups are always at the top of bookmakers France’s selection lists. Tennis betting, particularly on the French Open, is also quite popular among bettors. In terms of cycling, the Tour de France attracts millions of participants each year. The Monaco Grand Prix is another fan favourite, as betting on the iconic F1 circuit has always been exciting. Last but not least, France rugby is one of the country’s all-time favourite sports. Betting on the French in important competitions like the Six Nations Championship has become almost ritualistic.

Deposits & Withdrawals: How to Bet in France 💰

Despite the tight procedures put in place by ANJ, there are several ways to make a deposit or withdrawal. Credit/debit cards, e-wallets (such as Skrill), PayPal France, and bank transfers are all free of charge, with the exception of Neteller, which charges minor fees of roughly 2-4 percent in conformity with EU legislation. If you prefer to wager with an unregulated bookmaker, you can also use Payeer, Neosurf, and cryptocurrency.

Choosing a Reliable Betting Site 🍀

Here are some important considerations to make while selecting a French betting site:

• Do not sign up for an unlicensed betting site. The French betting sites we’ve listed above all have official licences from respected agencies, so you may sign up with confidence.
• Select an international betting provider that provides customer service in multiple languages.
• Choose a bookmaker that accepts the Euro as a currency.
• Look for a site that allows you to live stream matches, as well as in-depth match statistics and betting options like Cash Out and Bet Builder.
• Always look for bookmakers who have busy betting markets and favourable odds.

French Customers’ Favorite Payment Methods 💸

Payment options at licenced French betting sites include debit card, bank transfer, PayPal, paysafecard, Neteller, Skrill, and ecoPayz. All other payment options are free to use, with the exception of Neteller, which costs a 2-4 percent processing fee. When it comes to betting currencies, the Euro is accepted by all legal providers.

Before registering at a betting site, you should always double-check all crucial data like as payment methods, processing fees, and processing times. Choose the payment method that is most convenient for you and your needs.

In France, there is live betting. 📷

Live betting in France is quite similar to live betting in the United Kingdom; but, due to broadcasting rights, the sporting events that are available for live streaming may differ.

However, popular features such as live streaming services, extensive match statistics, betting tools such as Cash Out and Bet Builder, and a range of popular betting markets are frequently available. If you want to put in-play bets, you should always watch sports contests live.

FRENCH BOOKMAKERS’ BONUSES 🎁

On betting sites, the French can take advantage of a variety of bonuses and incentives. Almost all sites feature some type of welcome bonus, which is usually money back or free spins when a customer establishes a new account and makes a first deposit. Each site’s welcome bonus is slightly different, and the terms and conditions for how to use the welcome bonus should be thoroughly reviewed to understand what is required to claim the deal.

Existing customers can also take advantage of a variety of benefits to encourage them to keep playing. These are frequently more diverse than the welcome bonuses and change on a regular basis. Customers should visit the betting site’s bonus page on a regular basis to ensure that they are not missing out on any opportunities. Again, players should read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid falling into any traps that demand bonus money to be turned over a specific number of times within a given time period before it can be withdrawn.

FRENCH BOOKMAKERS’ BETTING FEATURES AND OPTIONS ⚙️

French bookies provide a plethora of alternatives for gamers to maximise their experience. These are some examples:

Cash-out

If a punter believes they have placed a losing bet, they have the option to withdraw their funds before the event concludes. Regardless of the outcome, they earn prizes based on the event’s odds at the moment of the cash-out. Portion sites allow bettors to cash out, leaving some of their bet in place, while others offer automatic cash out when odds reach a specific level.

Builder of bets

A bet builder is known by different names on different websites, but the idea remains the same. Users can enhance their odds by combining certain different bets. If all of the bets are successful, the punter obtains larger rewards than if he or she placed several separate bets. However, if just one of the bets fails, the entire bet builder fails. Sites may provide pre-made bet builders or let gamblers to choose which bets to mix and how many.

Streaming live

Punters will be able to view the event on which they have bet in real time thanks to live streaming. It is frequently especially valuable for events that are not aired or would otherwise be missed by the bettor. Bettors must normally wager at least €1 to gain access to live streaming services, but this is a legitimate barrier put in place by the operators to prevent system abuse.

Betting in real time

Live betting allows punters to continue placing bets after an event has begun, and to operate with odds that may fluctuate with gaming rather than the static odds at the start of an event. This feature frequently boosts the player’s odds and allows them to gamble on the event itself rather than analytics.

IN FRANCE, MOBILE BETTING 📱

Mobile betting is growing increasingly popular in France, and many organisations are working hard to accommodate this trend in gaming. All big international businesses that accept registrations from the French people have mobile betting sites available. Apps for both Apple and Android devices are normally free to download.

Customers who utilise mobile betting get everything they get on the full website, simply in a more convenient interface that they can use wherever and whenever they want. Many online betting firms, on the other hand, provide a mobile version of their website that does not require downloading but is easier to use on a smaller-screen device.

IN FRANCE, THE LEADING SPORTS FOR BETTING 🔥

• Football

Football is the world’s most popular sport, and the French are not immune to its allure. They enjoy betting on sports, both locally and in major international contests. France has competed in the FIFA World Cup since its beginning and has won it numerous times, most recently in 2018. Because of the sport’s international popularity and the exceptional quality of French teams, there are usually plenty of games to bet on, via both national and international betting platforms.

• Tennis

The French Open is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world, and it is held in France. As a result of the international interest in the game, the French have adopted it, and sports betting has seen a significant surge in activity. Tennis is a worldwide popular sport, and as a result, there are still opportunities to bet on both local and international tournaments.

• Baseball

Although baseball is not a popular sport in France, the amount of wagers on the sport compensates for this lack of enthusiasm. Known as one of the most popular sports in America, it appears that the French can’t get enough of Major League Baseball, the sport’s most popular event. Although coverage on French betting sites can be limited at times, overseas sites more than make up for this.

• Hockey on ice

Winter sports are important in French sports betting, in part because the country’s landscape and climate provide excellent chances for individuals to learn and enjoy sports. Ice hockey may be played throughout the winter, and a passion for the sport converts into a passion for betting on it. Despite not being renowned as a world leader in ice hockey, French betting sites will nonetheless provide various options to wager on local games, and larger betting sites will always cover international events.

• Rugby

Rugby is another sport in which the French thrive. They have a lengthy history of performing well in both the Rugby World Cup and the Six Nations Championship. In addition to betting on foreign games, the national league always provides bettors with excitement and the option to support a local club.

A FRENCH BETTOR’S PROFILE 👤

French bettors appear to follow the same trends as bettors in the rest of Europe and the world. Males make up the vast majority of those who participate in gambling activities (approximately 80 percent ). Betting is more common among younger people, with the majority of punters being under the age of 35. Although betting in physical locations remains the most popular means of betting in France, online betting is becoming more popular. In addition, as compared to any other type of legal gambling, French bettors are more inclined to engage in sports betting.

Betting online in France is severely regulated, yet punters can still gamble. Although the government had a monopoly for a long time, a recent change in the legislation allowed overseas operators to apply for a licence to service the French. In actuality, the high taxes are a detriment to the economy.

Conclusion

While internet betting is permitted in France, there are a few more limitations in place than you’re probably used to. Having said that, these rules do not prevent you from having a good time betting. Choose a regulated French betting site that best meets your demands, and avoid unregistered operators at all costs for your own protection. Finally, no matter where you are in the world, remember to gamble responsibly! It’s difficult to conceive that a country with such a liberal history as France would treat gambling so rigorously. Since the implementation of the French Gambling Act, the market has been dominated primarily by domestic operators. Heavy taxation and a shortage of online casino licences are two of the reasons why prominent international brands such as Bet365 remain absent from the industry. As a result, it is unsurprising that a lack of decent betting options forces domestic gamers to use unlicensed bookies in France. It is not the most inviting country for online betting, and it need a more operator-friendly legal environment. The French gambling scene still has a long way to go before it can reach its full potential. It is up to the ANJ to display its true colours in the next years.

FAQ

Is it legal to gamble in France?

Gambling is, indeed, allowed in France. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that not all forms of internet gambling are permitted in France. Casino games, spread betting, and betting exchanges, for example, are not.

Is it allowed to bet on exchanges in France?

Exchange betting is one of the forms of gambling activities that are not permitted in France since it is seen too addictive. As a result, betting exchanges in France are not regulated.

 What are the most popular gaming sites in France?

Bwin and PokerStars Sports are the most popular online gaming platforms in France. They are both in possession of a local licence issued by ANJ, the local online gaming regulating organisation.

Does Bwin welcome French players?

Bwin France is a well-known worldwide bookmaker that accepts French players. It provides betting on more than 50 sports, with over 30.000 pre-match events per month, as well as numerous incentives and promotions.

Where can I find the finest betting sites in France?

For French clients, the best sites are Betclic, Unibet, and bwin.

Is it legal to bet online in France?

Yes, online gambling is permitted in France. Having saying that, there are a number of guidelines and restrictions in place.

What are the most common online betting payment options in France?

Debit card, bank transfer, and e-wallets such as PayPal, paysafecard, ecoPayz, Neteller, and Skrill are the most common payment methods for online betting in France.

Is the Euro accepted by French betting sites?

Yes, all approved French betting sites accept the Euro.

Are there any taxes on winnings for French players?

Yes, if they play on a licenced site, French players are taxed on their profits; if they win more than €1,500, they must pay a 12 percent tax. Any winnings less than this amount are not taxed.

Are there any limits on betting for French players?

Legally, French players cannot gamble online on games of pure chance that need no skill – this includes many casino games. As a result, bettors who want to follow the law are limited in the kind of bets they can place. Despite this, there is a sizable worldwide betting market that provides a comprehensive range of betting alternatives. As a result, punters still have this option if they want to take it.

What is the greatest sports betting website?

While many various sites offer a wide variety of sports bets, Bwin is one of the best for French bettors. They are well-known for their vast sports coverage, amazing bonuses and promotions, and security policies. Bettors can utilise the site with confidence, knowing they are dealing with a respectable company.

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