A study led by the country’s gambling commission found that 30% of young people in Belgium use illegal websites to gamble on sports.
The report conducted by DataSynergy looked specifically at people aged 18 to 30 in Belgium and it concluded over 25% of that group used illegal means to wager.
When concerning both sports betting and games of chance like slots, 28% of those surveyed used illegal websites, 8% exclusively used illegal websites and 19% used a combination of both legal and illegal.
30% Of Young People In Belgium Use Illegal Sportsbooks
In terms of sports betting, 30% of young people wagered via illegal websites while 22% used illegal platforms solely for online casino betting.
Around 25% of 18 to 30-year-olds are also able to name at least one illegal gambling website according to the study, with 9% naming only illegal websites and 16% naming a combination of both legal and illegal.
The illegal market is becoming the new normal for Belgium youth and the top ten most popular operators among 18 to 30-year-olds includes three illegal websites.
Legislation Changes In Belgium Lead To Increased Illegal Activity
Gambling legislation in Belgium has seen a number of significant changes imposed in recent years, beginning with strict restrictions advertising in July 2023.
Additionally in September 2024, the minimum age for gambling in Belgium was increased from 18 to 21 years.
The Belgian gambling commission also announced this year that sports clubs cannot accept front-of-shirt sponsorship deals with companies that promote gambling.
That doesn’t mean partnerships between clubs and those companies are completely forbidden though, as logos can still be used in some form.
BAGO Reveal 25% Of Residents Are Using Offshore Sportsbooks
Belgium’s Association of Gaming Operators (BAGO), recently revealed that 25% of residents in the country are using offshore sportsbooks.
Chairman Tom De Clercq also highlighted that 47% of all players that have previously self-excluded have started gambling again through the offshore market.
“We are on a sloping plane. While licensed gambling sites are subject to strict rules, investing in responsible gaming and actively protecting players, illegal operators are given free rein.
“And that has consequences: more and more people, especially young people and vulnerable target groups, end up in an illegal circuit without rules, without control and without protection. If we do nothing, Belgium is in danger of losing control of its gambling market.”
Popular offshore operator Stake was cited as one of the biggest offshore websites in the country despite holding an active license in Belgium.
Consumer awareness about the brand doubled from 2% in 2023 to 4% in 2025.
Joe Lyons is a betting industry writer for GamblingIndustryNews with years of experience on reputable gambling websites. Joe specialises in long form content in the world of sports betting and gambling. Joe is recognised as an expert in sports fields such as horse racing, soccer, NFL and NBA.
