Senegal’s online betting surge ahead of 2026 world cup

The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has ignited a frenzy across Dakar, where sports betting has become more than just a pastime—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Over the past five years, the industry has undergone a digital transformation, making it easier than ever for enthusiasts to place wagers with just a few taps on their phones. No longer confined to brick-and-mortar betting shops, the convenience and accessibility of mobile betting have drawn in a growing number of participants, with many already feeling the excitement of the upcoming tournament.

a new era of betting in Senegal

Mohamed, a young resident of Dakar, is one of thousands caught up in this wave of excitement. For him, the World Cup has already begun, with bets placed on every possible outcome of the Senegal-France match on June 16. His strategy? A mix of combinations to maximize his chances of winning. «I’ve already placed bets on two different apps—one for France and one for Senegal. That way, I cover all my bases,» he explained. «A friend of mine called me yesterday, saying, ‘Mohamed, I need money—let’s place some bets.’ I told him, ‘Go ahead, let’s try our luck.’»

Assane, another local, shares Mohamed’s enthusiasm. «It’s thrilling,» he admitted. His approach mirrors Mohamed’s, with a focus on high-risk, high-reward scenarios. «I’ve bet on Senegal winning, both teams scoring, Mbappé scoring for France, and even Sadio Mané finding the net for us. If all goes as planned, I’ll win big!» he said, laughing.

the digital shift and its societal impact

The rise of online betting platforms has transformed the landscape in Senegal. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, these apps have proliferated, breaking down barriers and making betting accessible to all social strata. Malick Diouf, founder of the Dakar Sport Summit, noted, «Our country is predominantly Muslim, where betting hasn’t traditionally been accepted. The digital shift has removed the stigma, allowing everyone to participate without fear of judgment.»

The market is dominated by three major players: the Russian operator 1xBet, the French company Betclic, and the Senegalese group Sunubet. Since November 2025, these companies have been subject to a 20% tax on their revenue, with winnings also taxed. «The state benefits financially, but the funds collected must be reinvested into both professional and amateur sports,» Diouf emphasized.

the highs and lows of betting

Despite the thrill, Mohamed admits the odds aren’t always in the bettor’s favor. Last month alone, he wagered 80,000 West African francs (approximately 122 euros) across various leagues, from the Champions League to domestic competitions in the U.S. and China. His net loss? 30,000 francs (45 euros). «You lose more than you win—that’s the reality,» he confessed. «But the excitement keeps us coming back.»

The World Cup period is particularly intense, with betting reaching fever pitch. However, concerns about addiction are growing, as associations warn of the rising cases of compulsive gambling. For many, the line between entertainment and risk is becoming increasingly blurred.

regulatory framework and future prospects

The Senegalese government has taken steps to regulate the industry, imposing taxes to ensure that a portion of the revenue supports the development of sports at all levels. While this provides a financial boost to local sports initiatives, it also raises questions about the sustainability of the betting culture in the long term.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Dakar’s streets buzz with anticipation. Whether for the love of the game or the allure of potential winnings, one thing is clear: sports betting has firmly entrenched itself in Senegal’s social fabric, shaping the way fans experience the beautiful game.