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France Betting Sites

Written by Pavel Kateliev
Pavel Kateliev is a popular sport journalist, particularly in the fields of football, basketball, tennis, and hockey. He writes daily for Sportingpedia and his work has been translated into at least 20 languages and featured on renowned outlets such as BBC, Yahoo, MCN, Sun, and Evening News, in Italian, English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
, | Updated: October 10, 2025

Below you can find our expert reviews of reputable and regulated sports betting sites operating in France. Each betting site has been thoroughly tested and verified by our team.

France is a country renowned for its cuisine, fine wine, rich culture, and landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. The country also boasts a long history in gambling. France is home to some of the most iconic gaming establishments in the world and has greatly contributed to the development of many casino games, including the ever-popular baccarat and roulette, with French mathematician Blaise Pascal being credited for inventing the roulette wheel. The card deck widely used today also originated in France, as did pari-mutuel betting.

One of the most popular forms of gambling in the country is sports betting. The French regulatory body, ARJEL (Autorité de régulation des jeux en ligne), reported that sports betting reached an unprecedented peak in 2018, as bettors from the country collectively wagered over $1.1 billion between June and September alone.

French Sports Betting Sites Ranked by Trustpilot Rating

Comparison of Sports Betting Sites in France

SportsbookSports on OfferMin DepositMin WithdrawalMin BetBonusesBonus Wagering RequirementsIn-Play BettingLicenses
22BetFootball, Tennis, Basketball, Ice Hockey, Volleyball, and over 40 other sports• $10 for MiFinity; • 0.001 BTC for Bitcoin; • $11.64 for most other methodsDepends on payment provider$0.30/€0.20

• 100% Welcome Bonus up to $/€122
• Friday Reload Bonus
• $256 for being active on mobile app
• Refund on Losing Bets
• Weekly Rebate

• 5x bonus funds on accumulator bets (Welcome Bonus)
• 3x bonus funds on accumulator bets (Friday Reload)
• 3x bonus funds on accumulator bets (Mobile App Bonus)

Yes

Kahnawake Gaming Commission (#00882)

Curacao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/590/0758)

RabonaSoccer, Horse Racing, Virtual Sports, Tennis, and 35+ other sports•€30 for BTC; •€10 for other methods•Fiat methods - €10; •USDC, USDT, XRP, ADA - €30; •ETH - €40; •BTC: - €60; •BCH - €10$/€1

•First Deposit Bonus: 100% up to €100;
•50% up to €50 risk-free;
•Cashback Bonus of 10% up to €500

First Deposit Bonus
•Minimum qualifying deposit – €20;
•5x wagering requirements for customers from Switzerland, Finland, Austria, Germany, and Norway;
•6x wagering requirements for customers from other countries;
•Minimum odds of 2.00 for settled single bets;
•Minimum odds of 1.50 per selection for multi bets
•Skrill and Neteller deposits are ineligible
•Maximum cashout restricted to 10x the bonus value

Yes

•Ireland Revenue Commissioners (1020581)
•Anjouan Gaming Board (ALSI-202411077-FI2)
•Operated by Naale Limited in Ireland and Stellar Limited in Anjouan

N1 BetSoccer, Ice Hockey, Basketball, Tennis, Volleyball, Esports, and 20+ sports20 €/$€/$20Not specified

First Deposit Bonus Free bet of up to €200

Up to €/$60 in Free Bets

First Deposit Bonus:
Free bet with 50% of the first deposit sum (up to €200);
Bonus funds expire 3 days after being claimed;
Free bets can be used on all events, with odds from 1.01 to 2.00

Up to €/$60 in Free Bets:
Deposit at least €/$20 to receive four bets totaling €/$40, or deposit at least €/$30 to receive four bets totaling €/$60;
First bet can be used for any bet type, second bet is reserved for in-play, third bet is only for acca bets, fourth bet is exclusive to football bets;
Odds no higher than 10.00 (combo bets) and 2.50 (other bets);
Free bets expire 3 days after being claimed

Yes

The Curacao Gambling Commission (OGL/2024/161/0191)

20BetFootball, Tennis, Basketball, Table Tennis, Ice Hockey, and 30+ other sports• $21 - Bitcoin; • $10 - Other Methods$/€10$/€0.10

• 100% Welcome Bonus up to $/€100
• Saturday Reload Bonus 100% up to $/€100
• Forecast Free Bets

• 5x bonus amount on accumulator bets at odds of 2.0 or higher (Welcome Bonus)
• Winnings have no wagering requirements (Saturday Reload Bonus)
• Full free bet wagered (Forecast free bets)

Yes

Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/590/0758)
Kahnawake Gaming Commission (#00882)

Sportsbet.ioSoccer, Tennis, Baseball, eSports, Virtual Sports, Horse Racing, and 30 other sports• BTC 0.000007; • ETH 0.00013; • LTC 0.002• BTC 0.0005; • 0.01 ETH; • 0.1 LTC• mBTC 0.01 (BTC 0.00001); • ETH 0.001; • LTC 0.01

Champions Welcome Bonus for Sports or Casino (100% up to 300 USDT or 3 mBTC)

• Minimum deposit of 0.1 mBTC;
• Wagering requirements of 10x (40x for casino);
• Available for BTC, USDT, TON, and TRX deposits;
• Minimum odds of 1.50 during bonus wagering;
• Expires after 7 days

Yes

Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2023/110/0072)

Stake.comSoccer, Tennis,Baseball, Basketball, Cricket, American Football, and 30+ other sportsNo minimum or maximum deposit limits for crypto• BTC: 0.00002504; • ETH: 0.00062610; • LTC: 0.01857329• Crypto: $0.00001 per bet; • Fiat: 0.10 regardless of currency

Regularly updated promotions, including event-specific bonuses

N/A

Yes

Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/1451/0918)
Columbia (C1751)
Mexico (DGAJS/SCEVF/P-06/2005-TER EN)
Peru (N° 4748-2024-MINCETUR/VMT/DGJCMT, N° 4749-2024-MINCETUR/VMT/DGJCMT)
Secretariat of Prizes and Bets at Brazil’s Ministry of Finance (PORTARIA SPA/MF Nº 263)

1xBitBaseball, Football, eSports, Horse Racing, Rugby, Soccer, and 40+other sports0.01 mBTC; 20 mETH; 10 mLTC0.21 mBTCVaries based on accountcurrency

Up to 7 BTC and
250 free spins
on the first four
deposits

40x on single and
parlay bets with min.
odds of 1.60

0,1 mBTC min. deposit

Yes

Government of the Autonomous Island of Anjouan (ALSI-202409027-FI2)

MelbetFootball, Basketball, Baseball, American Football, Tennis, Golf, Ice Hockey, and 40+ other sports• Jeton, AstroPay - $1; • MiFinity - $10; • Skrill - $5.83; • Mastercard - $1.17; • Bitcoin - 0.001 BTC• Sticpay - $10; • Skrill - $5.83$0.20

First Deposit Bonus: 100% up to $100

• $1 minimum deposit required
• 5x wagering requirements on accumulators with 3 or more selections
• Minimum odds of 1.40
• Expires after 30 days

Yes

Curacao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/561/0554)
Operated by Pelican Entertainment B.V.
Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA/OP/OSB/MB021222)
Gaming Commission of Ghana (GCSB25J8590V)
Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya (0001174)

UnibetHockey, Soccer, Cricket, eSports, Golf, and 30+ othersports€5€15 - credit/debit cards; €10 - other methods€0.10

Welcome Offer:
Deposit €/£10, Receive €/£40

Welcome Offer:
3x the bonus amount

Yes

Irish Revenue Commissioners (1013174)

Malta Gaming Authority (MGA/B2C/106/2000)

UK Gambling Commission (045322-R-324275-017)

Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA)

Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner (No. 092)

NetBetFootball, Horse Racing, Tennis, Basketball, Virtual Sports, and 35+ other sports$/£/€10$/£/€10€0.07 for pre-live betting and €0.13 for live betting

N/A

N/A

Yes

MGA (MGA/B2C/126/2006)

UKGC (39170)

Top 10 Betting Sites for France

  1. 22Bet

    22Bet logo
    Bet Now Review
    Licenses
    Kahnawake Gaming Commission (#00882)Curacao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/590/0758)
    Min Deposit
    • $10 for MiFinity; • 0.001 BTC for Bitcoin; • $11.64 for most other methods
    Min Withdrawal
    Depends on payment provider
    Withdrawal Time
    • Cryptocurrencies - 24 hours • E-wallets - 15 minutes • Credit and debit cards - up to 7 business days
    Deposit Methods
    Visa logoMastercard logoNeteller logoSkrill logoPaysafecard logoBank Transfer logoBitcoin logoDogecoin logoEthereum logoDash logoMonero logoTether logoLitecoin logoRipple logoMiFinity logoRevolut logoEU SEPA bank transfer logoCardano  logoGoogle Pay logoDiscover logoBinance Coin logoChainlink logoUSD Coin logoPolygon logoTron logoEthereum Classic logo
    Sponsorships
    N/A
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes email: support-en@22bet.com Phone: +357 99 816806
    X profileInstagram profileLinkedIn profile
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    • Covers more than 1,000 sporting events daily
    • Supports a wide range of payment methods
    • Very low minimum deposits
    • A broad range of limited-time and ongoing sportsbook promotions
    • Native iOS and Android apps
    • Dedicated customer support in several languages

    Bettors can have a great time at 22bet, as the brand knows how to provide a smooth, fun, and rewarding experience for its members. With excellent sports coverage, you can bet on football, basketball, tennis, and other popular categories. In addition, punters will find odds on esports, horse racing, and even more niche sports, all of which still offer plenty of betting options.

    Many of the sports covered by 22bet also offer in-play betting, giving bettors the opportunity to place wagers on events happening in real time. Regarding payments, punters can choose from a wide array of options, including numerous cryptocurrencies, to manage their 22bet balance.

  2. Rabona

    Rabona logo
    Licenses
    •Ireland Revenue Commissioners (1020581) •Anjouan Gaming Board (ALSI-202411077-FI2) •Operated by Naale Limited in Ireland and Stellar Limited in Anjouan
    Min Deposit
    •€30 for BTC; •€10 for other methods
    Min Withdrawal
    •Fiat methods - €10; •USDC, USDT, XRP, ADA - €30; •ETH - €40; •BTC: - €60; •BCH - €10
    Withdrawal Time
    •Bank cards - 2-5 days; •E-wallets, Crypto - instant
    Deposit Methods
    Mastercard logoPaysafecard logoSkrill logoSkrill 1-Tap logoNeteller logoJeton logoMiFinity logoBitcoin Cash logoTether logoBitcoin logoLitecoin logoEthereum logoRipple logoUSD Coin logoInterac logoBank Transfer logoVisa logoRapid Transfer logoCardano  logoNeosurf logoMuchBetter logoRevolut logoPIX logoAktia logoPOP Pankki logoDanske Bank logoS-Pankki logoNordea logoZimpler logoOp-Pohjola logoÅlandsbanken logoSäästöpankki logoPankkisiirto  logo
    Sponsorships
    SSC Napoli
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes Email: support@rabona.com
    Telegram accountYouTube chanel
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    • Wide selection of pre-match bets
    • Live betting on numerous sporting events
    • Fully optimized for mobile devices
    • Plenty of promotions for new and existing members
    • Supports many secure payment methods
    • Quick responses from the customer support team

    Whenever sports fans want to add some thrill to their experience, they can head to Rabona and place wagers on events whose outcomes they feel confident predicting. The bookmaker covers some of the hottest current tournaments and leagues, offering punters odds on top sporting events.

    Bettors can choose to place pre-match bets or opt for in-play betting on several sports. Whichever option they choose, it is easy to set up the bet and enjoy the game. Rabona members looking to enhance their experience can also explore the promotions offered by the bookie and redeem those that provide the best value for their stakes.

  3. N1 Bet

    N1 Bet logo
    Licenses
    The Curacao Gambling Commission (OGL/2024/161/0191)
    Min Deposit
    20 €/$
    Min Withdrawal
    €/$20
    Withdrawal Time
    Bank transfers - within 3 working days; Other methods - within 24 hours
    Deposit Methods
    Sofort logoMaestro logoVisa logoMastercard logoNeteller logoSkrill logoPaysafecard logoNeosurf logoiDebit logoInterac logoMiFinity logoPay4Fun logoMuchBetter logoBitcoin logoEthereum logoLitecoin logoBitcoin Cash logoDogecoin logoUSD Coin logoBank Transfer logoGoogle Pay logoApple Pay logoecoPayz logoTether logo
    Sponsorships
    N/A
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes Email: support@n1bet.com Phone: N/A
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileTelegram account
    Chart loading...
    • Extensive sports coverage
    • Supports a wide range of payment methods
    • In-play bets on major sporting events
    • Generous promotions for sports betting fans
    • Optimized for mobile devices
    • Video streams of major sporting events

    Sports betting enthusiasts can have a great time at N1 Bet, with the sportsbook offering competitive odds on a wide range of sporting events. Those who want a fun and rewarding experience can visit the bookie’s website and explore the variety of betting options available. Setting up bets in the bet slip is a breeze, allowing punters to manage all of their wagers quickly.

    To make the experience even more exciting, N1 Bet also offers live betting on various sports. What makes this type of wagering even better is the option to stream some of the games that support in-play betting.

  4. 20Bet

    20Bet logo
    Bet Now Review
    Licenses
    Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/590/0758) Kahnawake Gaming Commission (#00882)
    Min Deposit
    • $21 - Bitcoin; • $10 - Other Methods
    Min Withdrawal
    $/€10
    Withdrawal Time
    • E-wallets - 12 hours • Cryptos - 24 hours • Credit/debit cards - 7 business days
    Deposit Methods
    Visa logoMastercard logoPaysafecard logoPerfect Money logoBitcoin logoEthereum logoLitecoin logoMiFinity logoecoPayz logoCashtoCode logoJeton logoeZeeWallet logoFlexepin logoInterac logoNeteller logoSkrill logoTether logoDogecoin logoRipple logoCardano  logoSolana logoBinance Coin logoChainlink logoPolkadot logoBank Transfer logo
    Sponsorships
    N/A
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes email: support@20bet.com Phone: N/A
    X profileInstagram profileLinkedIn profile
    Chart loading...
    • Great coverage of top sporting events
    • Generous welcome offer
    • Supports a variety of secure, easy-to-use payment methods
    • All punters automatically join the 20Bet VIP program
    • Android and iOS users can bet on a fully optimized mobile version of 20Bet
    • 24/7 live chat customer support

    Bettors can find their favorite sports at 20Bet and enjoy a top-notch betting experience, thanks to the diverse options the bookmaker offers. The top championships and events are displayed prominently at the top of the 20Bet sportsbook lobby, allowing punters to locate the most popular picks with ease. Players can also browse the extensive list of sports covered by the bookie and choose the markets they believe will deliver the best value.

    Members of 20Bet can place pre-match bets on a wide variety of sporting events. In addition, many categories offer in-play betting, making the experience at 20Bet even more thrilling, with live bets available on numerous events.

  5. Sportsbet.io

    Sportsbet.io logo
    Licenses
    Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2023/110/0072)
    Min Deposit
    • BTC 0.000007; • ETH 0.00013; • LTC 0.002
    Min Withdrawal
    • BTC 0.0005; • 0.01 ETH; • 0.1 LTC
    Withdrawal Time
    Within 15 minutes
    Deposit Methods
    Bitcoin logoEthereum logoTether logoLitecoin logoRipple logoDogecoin logoCardano  logoBinance Coin logoPolygon logoShiba Inu logoSolana logoUSD Coin logoTron logoToncoin logo
    Sponsorships
    La Liga, Nwankwo Kanu, Brett Lee, Tristan Thompson, World Snooker Tour (Players Championship, Tour Championship and Champion of Champions)
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: YesEmail: hello@sportsbet.ioContact Us Form
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileTelegram accountYouTube chanelTikTok profile
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    • Crypto sportsbook supporting multiple cryptocurrencies
    • Fast, easy payments
    • Competitive odds across a wide range of events
    • Live betting on numerous sports
    • Generous sportsbook promotions
    • Clubhouse TV provides in-play betting tips and commentary

    Sportsbet.io is a virtual sportsbook that delivers a superb experience, allowing members to conduct all of their betting with cryptocurrencies. With many online bettors embracing crypto, the brand is the ideal destination for sports betting enthusiasts. To suit diverse preferences, the bookmaker covers a wide variety of sports, and the biggest leagues feature multiple betting options.

    Punters can make the experience even more exciting by choosing live betting, which covers many major events in real time. Furthermore, Sportsbet.io provides live commentary on many games that support in-play betting, giving bettors a better chance of placing successful wagers.

  6. Stake.com

    Stake.com logo
    Licenses
    Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/1451/0918) Columbia (C1751) Mexico (DGAJS/SCEVF/P-06/2005-TER EN) Peru (N° 4748-2024-MINCETUR/VMT/DGJCMT, N° 4749-2024-MINCETUR/VMT/DGJCMT) Secretariat of Prizes and Bets at Brazil's Ministry of Finance (PORTARIA SPA/MF Nº 263)
    Min Deposit
    No minimum or maximum deposit limits for crypto
    Min Withdrawal
    • BTC: 0.00002504; • ETH: 0.00062610; • LTC: 0.01857329
    Withdrawal Time
    • Crypto: Instant; • Bank Transfers: 3 business days
    Deposit Methods
    Bitcoin logoEthereum logoLitecoin logoDogecoin logoBitcoin Cash logoTron logoEOS logoTether logoCronos logoUSD Coin logoApeCoin logoDai logoChainlink logoThe Sandbox (SAND) logoShiba Inu logoUniswap logoPolygon logoSolana logoEU SEPA bank transfer logoGoogle Pay logoPIX logoVisa logoMastercard logoMaestro logoApple Pay logoBank Transfer logoBinance USD logo
    Sponsorships
    UFC, Everton Football Club, Enyimba Football Club, Team Vitality (eSports), Stake F1 Team, Drake, Esporte Clube Juventude, FBC Melgar, Trinbago Knight Riders, Fortaleza CEIF, Club Deportivo Nublense, Davis Cup, Kun Aguero, Patrice Evra, Israel Adesanya, Alex Pereira, Valentina Shevchenko, Merab Dvalishvili, Alexandre Pantoja, Caio Borralho, Frankie Dettori
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes Email: support@stake.com
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileYouTube chanelLinkedIn profile
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    • Supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies
    • Covers numerous top sports
    • Offers both pre-match and in-play betting
    • Allows users to buy crypto for sports wagering on-site
    • Quick and secure payments
    • Excellent live support

    With crypto bookmakers widely regarded as the future of online betting, it is no surprise that Stake.com has become one of the hottest destinations for virtual sports wagering. The brand enables members to place easy, fast, and high-value bets on a vast array of popular sporting events, using some of the most popular cryptocurrencies for deposits and withdrawals.

    When it comes to top-notch betting, punters usually seek great odds and diverse markets. At Stake.com, they can enjoy both, choosing from highly competitive lines on many popular sports.

  7. 1xBit

    1xBit logo
    Bet Now
    Licenses
    Government of the Autonomous Island of Anjouan (ALSI-202409027-FI2)
    Min Deposit
    0.01 mBTC; 20 mETH; 10 mLTC
    Min Withdrawal
    0.21 mBTC
    Withdrawal Time
    Few minutes to 1 hours
    Deposit Methods
    Bitcoin logoEthereum logoTron logoBitcoin Cash logoEthereum Classic logoRipple logoLitecoin logoDogecoin logoDash logoMonero logoZCash logoNEM logoDigiByte logoVerge logoQTUM logoCardano  logoStellar  logoPolkadot logoToncoin logoAvalanche logoCosmos Atom logoPolygon logoTether on Ethereum logoTether logoBinance Coin logoSolana logoUSD Coin logoDai logoChainlink logoShiba Inu logo
    Sponsorships
    N/A
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes; Email: support-en@1x-bit.com, security@1x-bit.com, Phone: N/A
    X profileInstagram profileTelegram accountYouTube chanel
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    • Crypto sportsbook that supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies
    • Covers numerous popular sports
    • Live betting available on many sporting events
    • Mobile version compatible with multiple smart devices
    • Responsive customer support
    • Supports multi-view

    For those eager to explore a variety of sports bets, 1xbit is a great option. The gambling brand offers attractive odds, giving punters excellent value for their stakes. In addition, bettors can explore odds on a range of major sporting events as well as more niche categories.

    A key feature of 1xbit is its support for crypto payments, allowing bettors to fund their accounts with some of the most popular cryptocurrencies. In this way, punters can enjoy easy, safe payments and fully immerse themselves in online sports betting. Those looking to add extra value to their wagers can also redeem some of the generous promotions 1xbit provides.

  8. Melbet

    Melbet logo
    Bet Now
    Licenses
    Curacao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/561/0554) Operated by Pelican Entertainment B.V. Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA/OP/OSB/MB021222) Gaming Commission of Ghana (GCSB25J8590V) Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya (0001174)
    Min Deposit
    • Jeton, AstroPay - $1; • MiFinity - $10; • Skrill - $5.83; • Mastercard - $1.17; • Bitcoin - 0.001 BTC
    Min Withdrawal
    • Sticpay - $10; • Skrill - $5.83
    Withdrawal Time
    15 minutes
    Deposit Methods
    ecoPayz logoJeton logodirectDebit Premier Pay logodirectDebit Plus Premier Pay logoInterac logoPayeer logoDiscover logoPaysera logoDirect Debit logoPerfect Money logoAstropay logoMiFinity logoSkrill logoAirtm logoTether logoBitcoin logoLitecoin logoEthereum logoDogecoin logoSolana logoTron logoBinance Coin logoUSD Coin logoRipple logoToncoin logoMonero logoDash logoCardano  logoEthereum Classic logoShiba Inu logoDai logoBitcoin Cash logoCosmos Atom logoDigiByte logoStellar  logoChainlink logoPolkadot logoAvalanche logoQTUM logoZCash logoVerge logoSticpay logo
    Sponsorships
    Juventus FC, La Liga, Andrés Iniesta, Saint Lucia Kings (Caribbean Premier League)
    Contact Details
    Live chat: Yes Phone: +442038077601 Email: info-en@melbet.com
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileYouTube chanel
    Chart loading...
    • Wide selection of sports to bet on
    • Live betting available on major sporting events
    • Live streams of certain events
    • Supports various payment methods
    • Optimized for mobile devices
    • Generous promotions for bettors

    Melbet is a virtual sportsbook that lets members place wagers on some of the biggest sporting events worldwide. With extensive sports coverage and very competitive odds, the bookie gives its members the chance to secure great value for their bets. Numerous betting markets allow punters to explore different options, with some sports also offering live betting.

    Managing your balance at Melbet is easy, as you can choose from a plethora of payment methods, including several crypto options. Bettors who want to add extra value to their wagers can also take advantage of the promotions the bookmaker offers.

  9. Unibet

    Unibet logo
    Review
    Licenses
    Irish Revenue Commissioners (1013174)Malta Gaming Authority (MGA/B2C/106/2000)UK Gambling Commission (045322-R-324275-017)Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA)Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner (No. 092)
    Min Deposit
    €5
    Min Withdrawal
    €15 - credit/debit cards; €10 - other methods
    Withdrawal Time
    Cards - 1 to 3 days; Direct Banking - 1 to 3 days; E-Wallets - up to 12 hours
    Deposit Methods
    Visa logoMastercard logoPayPal logoPaysafecard logoBank Transfer logoMaestro logoInterac logoApple Pay logoTrustly logoSkrill logoNeteller logo
    Sponsorships
    Middlesbrough FCCheltenham FestivalNHL SwedenF.C. CopenhagenPFL Europe Division
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: YesEmail: info@unibetsupport.comPhone: 0808 1686635
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileYouTube chanelLinkedIn profile
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    • Excellent native apps for iOS and Android
    • Market diversity and great odds for all major sporting events
    • A broad range of live-betting markets
    • Live streaming of more than 40,000 events each year
    • Clean, easy-to-use interface
    • Various promotional offers for sports fans

    Unibet is a trustworthy brand that French punters can rely on whenever they want a fun sports betting experience. The sportsbook offers great odds on multiple major sports, covering popular tournaments and leagues. Each category allows punters to choose from different betting markets and quickly set up their bets via the betslip tool.

    In addition to pre-match wagering, Unibet gives its members the option to place in-play bets on various sports. Even better, bettors can stream many of the games they bet on, as the bookie broadcasts a large number of major events.

  10. NetBet

    NetBet logo
    Review
    Licenses
    MGA (MGA/B2C/126/2006)UKGC (39170)
    Min Deposit
    $/£/€10
    Min Withdrawal
    $/£/€10
    Withdrawal Time
    Bank cards - 2-4 business daysE-wallets - 1 business dayBank transfers - up to 48 hours
    Deposit Methods
    Visa logoMastercard logoNeteller logoSkrill logoPayPal logoPaysafecard logoTrustly logoSofort logoCashtoCode logoApple Pay logo
    Sponsorships
    Premier League West Bromwich Albion; Ligue 1 St. Etienne, FC Steaua București
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: YesEmail: support@netbet.comPhone: N/A
    X profileInstagram profile
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    • Reliable virtual sportsbook
    • Offers various promotions
    • Provides a dedicated mobile application
    • Supports multiple payment options
    • Presents punters with a wide range of betting options
    • Live streaming of major sporting events

    NetBet members can enjoy plenty of entertainment, as the brand offers different products for every type of customer. Sports betting is part of the operation, and NetBet is authorized to serve French punters. The sportsbook provides competitive odds on a myriad of sporting events, covering some of the biggest tournaments and leagues.

    A standout feature of NetBet is live betting, which enables punters to wager on matches while they are being played in real time. Additionally, bettors can click on matches marked with the NBTV logo and watch the games live on NetBet’s website, allowing them to follow the action and place bets simultaneously.

Both land-based and online sports betting in France are legal as long as operators have received licenses from the French regulator. The country has opened its sports betting market to foreign competition, enabling offshore operators to apply for and receive a local license. It is not surprising that many French bettors have transitioned from land-based to online sportsbooks, where they can choose from hundreds of markets at more competitive prices.

In the following article, we cover the most popular betting markets at France-friendly online sportsbooks, the most common payment methods French bettors can use to boost their sportsbook balances, and the bonuses they can claim to add more value to their online betting activities. But first, let’s take an in-depth look at the legal sports betting landscape in the country.

Legality and Regulation of Sports Betting in France

Legality and RegulationOnline sports betting was legalized in France after the enactment of the 2010 Gambling Act, and it is overseen by ARJEL (Autorité de Régulation des jeux En Ligne), which translates as the Regulatory Authority for Online Games. This independent authority is responsible for regulating online sports betting and horse racing in the country. On-track horse race betting is regulated by the PMU (Pari Mutuel Urbain).

Most forms of online betting are allowed in France, with the only exception being wagering on fantasy sports. Online sports betting operators must apply for a local license in order to legally serve bettors from the country. Each license issued by ARJEL remains valid for five years, with applicants having the option to renew their permits once they expire.

Each licensee is subject to inspection by ARJEL after one year of operation in the French market. In addition, the regulatory authority performs regular audits throughout the entire duration of the license. Those found guilty of violating the licensing terms outlined by ARJEL face sanctions that range from warnings to license withdrawal.

French regulations on online sports betting and horse racing require each licensed operator to comply with a payback ratio of 85%. Bettors themselves are not taxed on their profits because, under French law, sports betting, unlike poker, is not considered a “lucrative” or professional occupation.

However, this is not the case for online betting operators. Each licensed provider of online sports betting services is subject to taxation. The tax rates are based on the total amount wagered by French bettors annually, not just on the licensed operator’s gross betting revenue in the country.

Each licensee must pay taxes equal to 8.5% of the total amount bettors stake on its website annually, which corresponds to a gross revenue tax of around 57%. These high taxation rates make it nearly impossible for licensed online sportsbooks to yield satisfactory profits from their operations in France.

Figures released by ARJEL in 2015 further support this statement. According to the annual report, online sports betting increased by 30% during the year, while the operators’ gross revenue grew by only 15%. Nevertheless, it was estimated that since the regulations and tax system were introduced in 2010, licensed operators have suffered combined losses exceeding €220 million. In fact, only five out of eleven licensed online sportsbooks operating in the country were able to turn a profit in 2015.

Unlicensed gambling sites are generally blocked from serving bettors in the country. Those caught offering bets to French residents without a proper license risk heavy penalties, including imprisonment and fines of €90,000. Advertising unauthorized betting sites is also prohibited by French law, with violators facing monetary sanctions of €100,000. French bettors themselves are not prosecuted for participating in betting activities on unauthorized websites.

History and Key Sports Betting Laws in France

Key Sports Betting LawsSports betting, and gambling as a whole, is deeply rooted in the history of France. The roulette wheel may have originated in the country, but this did not prevent its government from outlawing all types of gambling activities in 1836. An exception was made for horse race betting.

Despite the ban, gambling continued to thrive in France through underground gambling dens where people placed their bets illegally. Pari-mutuel betting, where bets are pooled and winnings are divided among all participants, was also invented in France in 1867.

Around that time, betting shops started to sprout like wild mushrooms, enabling the French to wager on lotteries, pools, and fixed odds. To protect the thriving horse racing industry, the government passed another piece of legislation in 1891, which effectively prohibited fixed-odds wagering and pool betting on everything except horses.

The 1891 Act brought about the Pari Mutuel Hippodrome, or PMH, a state-owned entity that was allowed to legally accept pooled wagers on horse races. As soccer became increasingly popular toward the end of the 19th century, illegal bookmaking operations ran rampant. The French government had no choice but to legalize other forms of gambling, on the condition that betting services were provided by state-owned entities.

Legislative amendments between 1920 and 1930 resulted in the establishment of the Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU), responsible for horse race wagering, and the Francaise des Jeux (FDJ), which handled all other forms of betting. The two held a monopoly on gambling activities in the country for several decades.

As legal gambling brought numerous benefits to the country and its citizens, France continued to lift restrictions on betting. Pool bets on greyhound races were legalized in 1983, and five years later the legal gambling age was reduced from 21 to 18.

The year 2001 was marked by crucial changes in France’s gambling legislation, as the PMU and the FDJ were granted permission to provide online betting services. This significantly increased the revenue the two state-owned companies generated.

A portion of the profits went to the Centre National de Développement du Sport, a state-owned institution that supports French athletes and sports clubs. The Centre is also involved in several charities, notably the Red Cross and Odyssea, a charity that raises funds for cancer research.

The PMU and the FDJ retained their monopoly on online betting until 2010, when the French government passed a new Gambling Act (Law No. 2010-476) under pressure from the European Union. This gave foreign sports betting operators based in EU member states the opportunity to apply for local licenses. The Act also legalized online poker in the country, but interactive casino games remain illegal under French law because the government considers them too addictive.

The new legislation also resulted in the establishment of ARJEL, the local regulator of online betting services. All forms of online sports betting are currently legal in the country, with the exception of spread betting and eSports.

ARJEL does an effective job of preventing unauthorized betting sites from illegally serving bettors in France. A dedicated team of investigators searches for unauthorized betting sites. Such operators are issued formal notices warning them to cease their illegal activities, and those who fail to comply are heavily fined. The domains of unlicensed sportsbooks and online casinos serving customers from France are blocked. Esports are currently illegal in the country, but the PMU has shown interest in offering such services.

France Sports Betting Coverage and Markets

Sporting Events Coverage and MarketsSoccer is the dominant sport among French bettors who have no reason to complain about a lack of betting markets. All sportsbooks accepting wagers from the largest country in Western Europe offer a variety of options for soccer fans, boasting broad coverage of competitions from major leagues such as the French Ligue 1, the English Premier League, the German Bundesliga, the Italian Serie A, and the Spanish La Liga.

International competitions like the World Cup are also available at the fingertips of French bettors. The odds for soccer markets are generally quite competitive, but it is advisable to shop around and compare what different bookmakers offer to find the best prices. There are many options where bet types are concerned, but match betting, handicaps, totals, scores, and team goals remain among the most popular choices for French sports bettors.

France has a long tradition of horse race betting, which competes with soccer in terms of popularity at France-friendly online sportsbooks. Watching horse races is a preferred pastime of many Frenchmen, and a large portion of the profits generated through betting is reinvested in this sport.

Those who like to bet on horse races are presented with numerous wagering options on competitions that take place at racecourses throughout Europe. French bettors can make informed decisions by reviewing available information on the horses’ form and previous results. Popular bet types on horse racing include top-3 finish, win or each-way, and forecasts.

The French are avid cycling fans, which is hardly surprising considering their country hosts the annual Tour de France, the most prestigious cycling competition in the world. Bets on this event are, of course, accepted, but there are plenty of alternatives online for those looking to wager on other competitions such as Paris-Roubaix, the Tour of Flanders, the Tour de Romandie, and Milan-San Remo. Betting on the outright winner remains one of the most popular bet types among French cycling fans.

Other sports commonly available for online betting in France are basketball, volleyball, baseball, tennis, hockey, handball, boxing, golf, snooker, and greyhound racing. Pre-match and in-play betting are both possible at very competitive odds.

A good France-friendly sportsbook normally offers live streams to registered users along with podcasts, comprehensive statistics, and tips. All sportsbooks reviewed by Sportingpedia are mobile-responsive, allowing you to place bets on your smartphone or tablet while away from home.

Popular Odds Format in France

Popular Odds FormatDecimal odds are the format preferred by bettors in the country. Also known as European odds, they are easy to understand and work with, which is great for casual bettors who are just wading into the vast world of online sports betting. This odds format makes it easier to calculate potential returns on your wager, which is essential for any successful bettor.

Decimal odds display a bet’s price down to two decimal places and, therefore, give a more accurate reflection of your chances of winning. A wager of €10 at odds of 3.50 returns €35.00 (€25.00 in net profit plus the initial €10 stake). As you can see, the potential return is calculated by multiplying the stake by the odds. The bigger the decimal number, the larger the return. For instance, if you wager €10 on a horse at odds of 9.50, you will generate a total return of €95.00, including €85.00 in net profit if you win.

This simplicity does not exist with fractional odds, which makes it more difficult to assess the value of a given bet. If you win a bet at decimal odds of 1.00, you break even because your wager returns the same amount you staked. Bets with odds under 1.00 are negative-expectation wagers, meaning they return less money than the amount you have staked. A bookmaker would never offer odds below 1.00.

Conversion from fractional to decimal odds is also easy: divide the fraction’s numerator by its denominator and add 1 to the result. For example, to convert odds of 9/4 into decimals, divide 9 by 4, then add 1, and you get 3.25.

This expression of the odds also gives you a good idea of the implied probability of winning. To do so, divide 1 by the decimal odds and then multiply the result by 100, so in this case, the implied probability of winning a bet at odds of 3.25 is [1 / 3.25] × 100 = 30.76%.

Payment Solutions for Sports Bettors from France

Payment SolutionsAs one of the first six states to join the European Union in 1957, France uses the EUR as its official currency, which is supported by all online sportsbooks that accept French bettors. Debit and credit cards by Visa, Maestro, and Mastercard are often the payment method of choice, although virtual debit cards by Entropay and prepaid Paysafecards are convenient alternatives.

Bettors seeking higher levels of anonymity tend to use e-wallets like Neteller, Skrill, and ecoPayz, but online banking, regular wire transfers, and checks are readily available as well. Most deposit methods allow for instant money transfers, but payments conducted via wire transfers and paper checks usually require several business days.

France-friendly online sportsbooks take the safety of their customers’ information and payments seriously, which is why they implement SSL encryption, the same masking technology used by banks worldwide. Bettors are prompted to approach sports betting responsibly and are given the option to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits on their accounts. Time-off periods and self-exclusion are also viable options for those who struggle to control their betting activities.

Bonuses and Rewards for Sports Bettors from France

Bonuses and RewardsAn increasing number of French bettors prefer to place their sports bets online because of the lucrative promotional deals web-based bookies offer. Some sportsbooks greet newcomers with first-deposit bonuses, matching the deposited sum by a given percentage in free credits you can bet with.

However, most websites accepting wagers from the country prefer to reward new customers with free bets, granted either immediately after registration or after the bettor deposits for the first time. The customer is typically required to wager a predetermined minimum amount at specific odds to qualify for the offer.

In most cases, the bettor can cash out only the winnings generated with the free bet, while the free bet itself is not withdrawable. These bonuses expire after a set period (usually a month or so) if left unused and come with minimal wagering requirements, which makes them all the more rewarding.

Returning customers from France can boost the value of their bets by redeeming various ongoing promotions like cashbacks on losing accumulators and enhanced odds. Some France-friendly sportsbooks have dedicated loyalty programs with multiple tiers where the customer earns points each time they place a bet on the website. The points can be converted into more credits to bet with for free, although some online bookmakers allow you to exchange them for actual cash.

Customer Support at France Sports Betting Sites

Customer SupportThe vast majority of betting sites that accept wagers from La République support French as a language option, enabling customers to manage their accounts and bet slips in their native language. Such websites normally offer assistance in French as well, which makes it easier for bettors to communicate fluently with customer support staff.

Help is provided via dedicated live chat facilities that make it possible to get in touch with a support assistant within seconds. Apart from the short response times, French customers benefit from highly professional assistance provided in a friendly and courteous manner. Remember, a good France-friendly sportsbook will run a 24/7 live chat feature.

Other commonly available avenues of contact include email and telephone, with some betting operators offering toll-free lines for customers from France. Most reputable sports betting sites also feature detailed FAQ sections that answer the most pressing questions a sports bettor may have.

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