France Officially Bans Prediction Markets, Declaring Them Illegal Casinos
France Officially Bans Prediction Markets, Declaring Them Illegal Casinos
France’s National Gambling Authority (ANJ) has delivered a harsh verdict: popular platforms that allow users to place bets on political, sports, and geopolitical events are now classified as illegal gambling operations.
Under pressure from the regulator, leading platforms have already begun restricting access for users with French IP addresses. At the same time, ANJ openly acknowledges the obvious — such geoblocking measures are easily bypassed using VPN services.
The regulator’s main concern lies in the high risk posed by these platforms. According to ANJ, prediction markets cause addiction just as severe as that associated with classic online casinos, while operating entirely without oversight. They are not subject to the strict responsible gambling mechanisms mandatory for licensed bookmakers.
In addition, players’ funds exist in a legal grey area — French law provides no guarantees regarding the safety or protection of money held on such platforms.
It is worth noting that France is merely following a broader European trend. Similar bans on prediction markets are already in force in several countries, including Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Hungary, and Ukraine.
LicorBurMar 6, 2026Yeah right, they “blocked” it 😂 Turn on a VPN and keep betting. Who do they think they’re fooling with these geoblocks? Kindergarten stuff.
8h9oo0zs36Mar 7, 2026They could’ve just issued licenses, taken their cut, and suddenly everything would become “safe” and “legal.”
