20.5 million Americans to bet on World Cup

Over 20.5 million American adults (eight per cent of the population) plan to bet a total of $1.8bn on the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

This is according to the American Gaming Association’s inaugural survey on World Cup wagering. Unlike other major events like the Super Bowl and March Madness that have significant casual betting components, including bracket or squares contests, the vast majority of World Cup bettors (72 per cent) plan to place traditional bets either online, with a bookie or at a physical sportsbook.

Of World Cup bettors: 9.8 million (48 per cent) plan to place a bet online; six million (29 per cent) plan to place a casual bet with a friend; 4.7 million (23 per cent) plan to place a bet at a physical casino sportsbook; 4.1 million (20per cent) plan to place a bet with a bookie; and 3.5 million (17 per cent) plan to place a bet as part of a paid pool or fantasy contest.

The survey also found the majority (78 per cent) of World Cup bettors say it is important for them to place their bets legally.

“As the first World Cup with widespread availability of legal sports betting, this will certainly be the most bet-upon soccer event ever in the US,” said AGA senior vice president Casey Clark.

“With more than half of all American adults having access to legal betting options in their home market, legal sports betting will deepen American fan engagement in the most-watched sporting event in the world.”