Mexican Betting Industry Urges Law Updates Ahead of World Cup 2026
UPDATE: The Mexican gambling industry is pushing for urgent reforms to outdated betting regulations ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, set to kickoff in less than a year. Industry leaders warn that without timely updates to the country’s Federal Gaming and Lottery Law, Mexico risks losing a significant opportunity for growth as a host nation.
During a high-stakes meeting in Lisbon, executives from key betting companies voiced their concerns about the implications of the current legal framework, established in 1947. The World Cup is expected to spur a surge in betting activity, and leaders from the AIEJA are calling for immediate action from lawmakers to ensure a competitive and regulated betting environment.
Aviv Sher, CEO of Codere, emphasized that the World Cup could dramatically impact gross gaming revenue in Mexico, stating, “This event will accelerate growth and expose the shortcomings of existing regulations if changes are not made soon.” With the potential for billions in bets, the pressure is mounting for lawmakers to act swiftly.
Adding to the urgency, JD Duarte, Chairman of Betcris, warned against excessive regulation or inaction. “Every World Cup sees a spike in betting, condensing a year’s business into just one month,” he noted. “If Mexico isn’t prepared, a large portion of that betting might shift to unregulated or offshore bookmakers.” This would not only undermine the local market but could also lead to lost revenue for the country.
Industry leaders are advocating for a collaborative approach, with Yono Sidi, CEO of Winpot, proposing the creation of a joint advisory team comprising operators and regulators. “Involving the industry in crafting new regulations will lead to policies that are practical, enforceable, and ultimately protect consumers,” Sidi stated.
The AIEJA President, Dr. Miguel Ángel Ochoa Sánchez, has been called upon to spearhead these discussions to bridge the gap between operators and regulators. Duarte has emphasized the need for organized talks to develop a clear and updated regulatory framework.
As the World Cup approaches, the stakes are high. The event represents both a challenge and a chance for Mexican betting companies to showcase a robust, regulated market. The clock is ticking, and with growing pressure on lawmakers, immediate action is critical to harness the economic potential of this global event.
In summary, as the World Cup 2026 draws near, the Mexican gambling industry is at a crossroads. Leaders are urging swift reforms to ensure that the country capitalizes on this monumental occasion, rather than falling behind as other regions implement more modern regulations. The outcome will have lasting implications for both the industry and consumers in Mexico.
