ANJ Flags Niche Sports Betting Risks for High-Risk Players

The French gambling regulator Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) has identified a growing concern in 2025: niche sports betting markets are attracting a disproportionate number of high-risk players. This trend highlights potential risks for bettors who engage in less mainstream sports betting, where casual participation appears limited.

ANJ’s recent report reveals that niche sports betting markets in France are dominated by players who may be more vulnerable to gambling-related harm. The regulator argues this pattern likely reflects a scarcity of casual bettors within these less popular sports games. This concentration of high-risk players raises questions about the adequacy of consumer protections and responsible gambling measures tailored to these markets.

For bettors, this means that wagering on niche sports could involve greater risks compared to more widely followed sports such as football or tennis. These niche markets may not benefit from the same level of regulatory oversight or player safeguards that are typically applied to mainstream sports betting products.

Alongside these findings, ANJ reported that overall sports betting stakes in France increased by 12% in 2025, reaching €11.5 billion. Gross gaming revenue (GGR) also rose by 10.4% to €1.7 billion. This growth was primarily driven by football and tennis betting, which continue to dominate the market. While the expansion indicates a robust betting sector, it also emphasizes the need for targeted harm prevention strategies, especially in niche segments where player risk profiles differ significantly.

Players should be aware that betting on less familiar sports often involves lower liquidity and fewer casual participants. These factors can influence odds and market dynamics, potentially increasing volatility and risk. Bettors who may be vulnerable to gambling harm should consider these risks carefully and make use of available support services if needed.

The concerns raised by ANJ align with findings from other jurisdictions. For example, a recent study by the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) found a high rate of problem gambling among sports bettors in Colorado. This research highlights the importance of monitoring player risk across all types of sports betting markets to ensure effective consumer protection.

Meanwhile, regulators in Michigan have intensified efforts to combat illegal offshore operators. The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) recently issued cease-and-desist letters to 33 unlicensed gambling operators offering online casino and sports betting services. This action underscores ongoing challenges in protecting players from unregulated and potentially unsafe gambling environments.

Players in France and internationally can benefit from staying informed about the risks associated with different betting markets. Utilizing responsible gambling tools such as self-exclusion programs, betting limits, and access to support services remains essential for those who may be at risk.

For further information on sports betting developments and player protections, visit our Sports Betting section and Player Protection tag.

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Mark Reed

Mark Reed covers sports betting, commercial partnerships, sponsorship, and sportsbook operations. His reporting follows market launches, product moves, and regulatory shifts affecting betting operators.