Government pressed on action against illegal gambling websites during FIFA World Cup

The UK Government has been pressed to explain what action it is taking to combat illegal gambling websites and offshore operators targeting British consumers during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A Written Parliamentary Question submitted to ministers on Monday highlighted concerns that unlicensed platforms are exploiting heightened public interest in the tournament to lure users into unsafe betting environments.

According to the question tabled in the House of Commons, ministers were asked to set out what monitoring, enforcement and international cooperation measures are in place to prevent illegal operators from accessing the UK market. MPs also sought clarification on how the Government is working with the Gambling Commission to identify unlawful sites, disrupt their operations, and protect vulnerable users during the peak‑risk period of major sporting events.

The question reflects growing anxiety among parliamentarians and consumer‑protection groups that the World Cup — co‑hosted this year by the United States, Canada and Mexico — has triggered a surge in online betting activity. Campaigners warn that unlicensed operators often use aggressive advertising, cryptocurrency payments, and anonymous accounts to evade regulation and attract younger bettors.

Ministers are expected to respond with details of enforcement actions, including website blocking, cooperation with payment providers, and intelligence‑sharing with international regulators. The Government has previously said that tackling illegal gambling is a priority within its wider programme of reforms to the Gambling Act, though critics argue that enforcement has not kept pace with the rapid expansion of offshore digital markets.

The official ministerial answer to the Written Question will be published on Parliament’s website once issued.