France’s Betting Culture From Horse Racing to Online Expansion
France has a long history of gambling, rooted in its tradition of horse racing and state-run lotteries. Over the years, the country’s betting landscape has evolved, with online gambling becoming an increasingly prominent segment.

The French government has implemented strict regulations to oversee online gambling, requiring operators to obtain licenses and adhere to consumer protection laws. Popular forms of online betting include sports betting, poker, and lottery-style games, all of which are heavily monitored to ensure fairness and transparency.
Horse racing remains a cultural cornerstone of French gambling, with iconic events like the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe drawing significant attention. Parimutuel betting, managed by the state-run Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU), continues to dominate this sector, generating substantial revenue for the industry.
As France navigates the challenges of modernizing its gambling sector, the focus remains on balancing innovation with tradition, ensuring that the industry thrives while maintaining its cultural and ethical values.