France betting report shows online growth offset by state operators

French gambling revenue stayed flat in the first half of the year as online gains balanced state operator drops.

Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 16 October 2026

France saw total gross gaming revenue reach five billion euros in the first half of the year. The market stayed mostly stable with a tiny increase compared to the previous year. Online betting was the main area driving growth for the entire sector.

Online betting surges

Active online accounts reached nearly six million users during the period. Online gross gaming revenue jumped by eleven percent to hit one billion euros. Sports betting led the way due to a major football tournament in June.

Football matches caused a massive spike in betting activity during the summer month. Online poker also performed well with a solid percentage increase in revenue. Online horse racing recorded its biggest growth since two thousand twenty one.

State monopolies struggle

Exclusive operators faced tough conditions and dragged down the overall market numbers. Lottery performance dropped for one major operator due to smaller jackpot cycles and fewer ticket sales. Another traditional betting operator suffered its third consecutive year of falling stakes and revenue.

The gambling authority noted that future market success depends heavily on the recovery of the biggest state backed operator. Traditional horse racing betting continues to experience a transition period while leadership develops a new strategic plan.

What it means for a bet

Punters are moving online for sports and poker while traditional lottery and horse racing products lose momentum.

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