The next FIFA World Cup, which will feature 48 teams for the first time, is expected to be the single largest catalyst for online sports betting in history, according to industry projections. The tournament's expanded format means more matches, more betting markets, and a surge in wagering activity that could dwarf any previous sports event.
Why the 48-Team Format Matters
Moving from 32 to 48 teams adds a full round to the tournament and creates dozens of additional games. With each new match comes a fresh set of betting opportunities — from outright winners to half-time scores and player props. Online sports betting platforms are preparing for a volume of bets that could break all records. The sheer number of fixtures over the tournament's duration will keep bettors engaged from the group stage through to the final.
A New Benchmark for Online Betting
Previous World Cups already drew massive betting attention, but the 48-team version is projected to take it to another level. The expansion multiplies the possibilities for in-play betting, accumulators, and live wagering. Bookmakers and betting apps are expected to see a spike in new user registrations and transaction volumes as the tournament unfolds. The event is likely to set a new standard for how much money flows through online sportsbooks during a single competition.
Regulators and responsible gambling groups are taking note. The scale of the tournament means that a large wave of betting activity could also bring heightened risks for problem gambling. Measures such as deposit limits, self-exclusion tools, and advertising restrictions may come under greater scrutiny as the World Cup approaches.
What Comes Next
FIFA has not yet released the full match schedule for the expanded tournament, but betting operators are already mapping out their promotional campaigns. The buildup to the event will provide a clearer picture of just how much the online betting landscape is about to change.
