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With major sports events like Euro 2024 approaching, concerns about increased gambling addiction among fans are escalating. These events often lure inexperienced bettors into gambling and can also reignite the habits of problem gamblers. Responsible gambling advocates consistently urge sports enthusiasts to enjoy events without placing wagers.
In Thailand, worries about soccer betting addiction are particularly high. A 2021 survey by Chulalongkorn University found soccer to be the fourth most popular form of gambling in the country. Kongkan Takhiranyit, assistant director at the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, highlighted these concerns in a recent statement. She revealed that in 2021, around 3.8 million Thais bet on soccer, an increase of 300,000 from 2019.
Takhiranyit also noted the financial toll of soccer betting, with an estimated 181.68 billion baht (approximately $5 billion) lost to wagers. These figures underscore the potential for heightened gambling issues during Euro 2024.
To address these concerns, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation is collaborating with various agencies to promote soccer enjoyment without gambling. Takhiranyit confirmed that the foundation will run awareness campaigns in regions including Trang, Chonburi, Chiang Mai, Suphanburi, and Si Sa Ket during Euro 2024. These initiatives aim to educate the public on the dangers of gambling.
“The foundation is collaborating with relevant agencies to encourage fans to enjoy football tournaments without betting on them,” said Takhiranyit.
The link between popular sports events and increased gambling isn’t unique to Thailand. Globally, gambling sponsorships in sports have contributed to this trend. Betting operators have a duty of care to monitor and prevent excessive gambling, as mandated by regulatory frameworks in their operating jurisdictions.
However, the unregulated sector poses significant risks, lacking the protections found in the legal market. Constant vigilance and preventive measures are essential to safeguard bettors, particularly during high-profile sports events.