Recent research on the 2026 World Cup points to a scenario of strong growth for online betting during the tournament. The survey shows that 19% of global consumers who intend to follow the competition plan to place their first online bet during the World Cup, which will be held in the middle of the year.
The study “All the Ways Players Pay: World Cup 2026” also indicates that factors related to trust and payment experience will play a decisive role in the choice of platforms.
For many bettors, both new and experienced, these criteria outweigh traditional elements such as bonuses or market variety. The report was released by the payment platform Paysafe.
Betting intent is growing in the tournament’s host countries.
The World Cup returns to North America for the first time since 1994. This factor is boosting interest in online betting in the host countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
In total, 60% of the football fans surveyed stated that they intend to place bets during the competition.
In U.S. states where sports betting is permitted, 62% of consumers plan to place a bet. Within that group, 29% expect to place their first bet during the tournament.
In Mexico, interest is also high. There, 68% intend to gamble, while 26% say they will be first-time gamblers. In Canada, 46% of residents in the province of Ontario plan to gamble, with 9% being new gamblers.
What are the differences between emerging and mature markets?
In addition to the host countries, the research indicates a high intention to bet on recently regulated markets. Brazil shows 66% of respondents willing to bet during the World Cup. Peru registers the highest rate in the study, with 85%.
In mature European markets, interest remains high. Italy shows a 64% intention to bet, while the United Kingdom reaches 60%. This data reinforces the tournament’s global potential for the online betting sector.
When choosing a betting site for the World Cup, 38% of respondents prioritize brand trust. Even so, 33% say that fast payouts weigh more than any other criterion. Other factors mentioned include odds of winning, promotions, user experience, and the range of sporting events offered.
In some markets, priorities change. In Peru, for example, 38% of consumers value speed of withdrawal more. In this scenario, this factor surpasses the platform’s reputation, mentioned by 34% of respondents.
Payment preferences vary by market.
The data also shows clear differences in payment preferences. Globally, 24% of bettors prioritize fast deposits. In addition, 22% highlight the importance of having familiar and accessible payment methods.
Debit cards are the preferred option, with 39%. In markets that restrict the use of credit cards, debit becomes even more relevant. In the United Kingdom, for example, 53% prefer this method. In Massachusetts, in the United States, the rate reaches 56%.
Alternative payment methods also maintain their place. Bank transfers appear with 27% preference, while digital wallets account for 25%. In Peru, digital wallets already hold the lead, with 36%.
The research also highlights the importance of local payment methods. Globally, 19% of consumers prefer this type of solution. In Brazil, Pix emerges as the top choice, with 48% preference.
How negative experiences can impact bettors.
Since the World Cup lasts about five weeks, maintaining player engagement becomes a challenge. In this context, the payment experience takes on strategic importance.
Globally, 88% of bettors say they would switch betting sites after a negative experience. In the United States and Ecuador, that percentage rises to 93%. The data indicates that failures in deposits or withdrawals can lead to immediate losses for users during a tournament.
