Eight in ten gamblers aged 18-24 (83%) will bet more frequently in 2026 due to major sporting events like the World Cup, with a quarter (25%) doing so to help cover essential bills, according to new research from Nationwide. By comparison, less than half (37 per cent) of those over 55 expect to gamble more.
As the cost of living continues to put pressure on finances, the poll of 2,000 UK gamblers reveals a striking generational divide ahead of this summer’s tournament, which starts with Mexico kicking off against South Africa on Thursday, 11 June.
Nationwide commissioned the research to understand better the impact of major sporting events on gambling habits, with young people found to be particularly vulnerable.
The…