France’s gambling market recorded growth of only 0.5% in the first half of 2026, despite strong performance in online betting and poker. According to figures from the National Gaming Authority (ANJ), gross gaming revenue (GGR) reached €5.66 billion for the six months to 30 June. Growth slowed from 4.1% in the same period of 2025.
Online Gambling Drives the Market
Online gambling was the only major market segment to grow, with GGR increasing 11% year on year to €1.45 billion. The sector accounted for 25.6% of the overall market, while active player accounts rose 24%.
Sports betting was the biggest online contributor, with GGR up 11.6% to €995 million and stakes reaching €6.6 billion. The early stages of the FIFA World Cup in June helped drive activity.
Online poker GGR rose 13.4% to €290 million, while online horse racing revenue increased 2.8% to €164 million. Online casino gambling remains unregulated in France.
Lottery and Horse Racing Weigh on Growth
Declines in the exclusive-rights businesses of FDJ United and Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU) held back the wider market. FDJ United’s GGR from exclusive activities fell 2% to €3.43 billion, while PMU’s declined 5.8% to €782 million.
The next challenge will be determining whether new bettors attracted during the World Cup remain active in the second half of the year.
National Gaming Authority (ANJ)
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