Key Moments:
- 13 percent of adult grassroots football players in England meet criteria for problem gambling, compared to 2.5 percent of the general population
- Over 16.4 percent of adult male amateur footballers experience gambling problems, far higher than the male national average of 3.3 percent
- More than 20 percent of players aged 11 to 15 reported gambling in the previous month
Research Uncovers Surprising Levels of Gambling Harm
A new study led by the University of Bristol has highlighted a significant link between gambling problems and grassroots football in England. The findings indicate that adult amateur football players are facing gambling challenges at a rate much higher than the general population. The research points to the integration of gambling activities into the social and cultural routines of lower-league football.
High Prevalence of Gambling Issues Among Players
The research project, which drew on over 270 survey responses and 39 interviews from participants ranging in age from 11 to 68 across southern England, found that 13 percent of adult grassroots footballers scored eight or above on the Problem Gambling Severity Index, the threshold for clinical problem gambling. Among adult men, this figure rose to 16.4 percent. These rates are notably higher than the national averages, which stand at 2.5 percent for all adults and 3.3 percent for men. Compared to national statistics, nearly 70 percent of surveyed grassroots footballers were identified as being at low or moderate risk, whereas only about 15 percent of the broader adult population fall into these categories.
| Group | Problem Gambling Rate |
|---|---|
| Adult grassroots footballers | 13% |
| General adult population | 2.5% |
| Adult male grassroots footballers | 16.4% |
| General adult male population | 3.3% |
Gambling Embedded in Football Culture
Interviews revealed that gambling is often seen as a natural part of the grassroots football experience, rather than a separate activity. Betting discussions reportedly take place during training, in locker rooms, on team transportation, and within digital team chats. Players commonly finish matches and then gather to place bets on televised games, making it part of their social rhythm and reinforcing a shared group experience.
One participant commented, “Gambling always kind of felt like it’s hand in hand with football…On a Saturday everyone says ‘Oh, have you put a bet on today? Who are you betting on?’ then when your game finishes everyone’s in the pub or in the bar seeing what games are coming in, what the results are.” Another shared, “They just go together like eggs and bacon.”
Impact on Younger Players
The research identified gambling activity among participants as young as 11, with more than one in five aged 11 to 15 acknowledging gambling within the previous month. While the study did not focus on specific gambling products, interviewees described a culture where mobile betting is easily accessible, especially when younger players are influenced by adult teammates who are also betting. Health organizations have emphasized that early exposure to gambling can increase potential harm later in life, especially for younger individuals still developing decision-making abilities.
Gambling Success as Social Status
Within amateur teams, gambling achievements and football betting acumen are sometimes seen as sources of respect and credibility. This social dynamic is especially prevalent among younger players, who may use successful wagers or market knowledge to integrate into the group or enhance their status. The researchers noted that this dynamic can intensify gambling behaviors as social approval is tied to betting activity.
Influence of Professional Football and Calls for Action
The study also connected the normalization of gambling in grassroots football to the commercialization of the professional game, highlighting the prevalence of sponsorships and advertising as key factors shaping amateur culture. Dr Raffaello Rossi explained that widespread gambling marketing in elite football has filtered down to lower levels, directly influencing the rates of harm found in the research.
The research team advocates for stricter national regulations on sports-related gambling marketing, referencing approaches in countries such as Spain, Italy, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The call to action includes integrating gambling awareness and harm prevention programs into all levels of football coach education, rather than restricting these efforts to the professional ranks.
Worthing Town Football Club expressed support for the study and reaffirmed its commitment to member safety, emphasizing the importance of addressing less visible risks as well. Public figures such as Peter Shilton CBE, Lord Carlile of Berriew, and Dr Beccy Cooper MP have echoed concerns raised by the study, highlighting the urgency of government review and interventions focused on grassroots football.
- Author
Daniel Williams
