GGL Warns Against Illegal Sports Betting During 2026 FIFA World Cup The German Joint Gambling Authority (GGL) has issued a warning about the risks of participating in illegal sports betting during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada starting on June 11. The GGL is intensifying its oversight and control measures around the tournament, urging consumers to avoid unlicensed betting platforms. The authority emphasized the dangers of illegal gambling, including the lack of consumer protections and the heightened risk of fraud or unfair practices. The GGL’s warning aligns with recent statements from Hendrik Streeck, the federal government’s anti-drug and addiction commissioner, who has highlighted illegal gambling as a critical issue in the fight against addiction. Streeck noted that illegal betting sites often bypass legal safeguards designed to protect minors, athletes, and consumers. The GGL reiterated that such platforms pose significant risks to users, including exposure to criminal activities and exploitation. Ronald Benter, a member of the GGL’s board, stressed the importance of verifying the legitimacy of betting providers before engaging in any wagers. He advised consumers to consult the official whitelist of authorized sports betting operators, which is accessible via the GGL’s website. The whitelist includes all licensed providers in Germany and allows users to filter for sports betting options. Benter also urged users to familiarize themselves with the characteristics of illegal gambling sites, which are detailed in the GGL’s FAQ section. The GGL has expanded its monitoring efforts during the World Cup, implementing stricter checks to combat potential violations.#fifa #2026_fifa_world_cup #german_joint_gambling_authority #hendrik_streeck #international_olympic_committee
