Is gambling addiction a big problem among football fans?

Like it or not gambling is a big part of football culture among fans, and it looks like it is here to stay. It didn’t just happen overnight. I believe that it is connected to the fact that sports betting companies were allowed to advertise their services as much as they did up until now. The majority of football teams still have gambling companies sponsoring them. Ease of access to placing a bet in just a few taps also played its role. We all have a smartphone in a pocket these days with our bank account linked and ready to spend that hard-earned cash.

I can’t say that it is 100% a bad thing. Definitely not worth banning in my opinion. However, if you choose to place bets, you should use a legal gambling site from a list like the one compiled by a respectable legal portal Solicitors Guru. It is good to know that you can count on the UK government agency to help you in case you ever run into any trouble with a gambling operator.

Why am I against banning sports betting?

There are plenty of responsible people out there that are having a good time betting. It makes watching a football match more exciting and personal as long as you don’t bet ridiculous amounts of money. But we all know at least one person who has a gambling problem. It may be that one guy at work or one of your mates. You know who I am talking about. They bet way too much money saying “you have to bet big to cover your losses”. It is time to stop if you are counting losses, and they feel significant enough to affect your financial stability or happiness.

Gambling should be a fun activity. Not an investment or a way to make money fast. If you think differently, you will have a bad time. Don’t be afraid to be more vocal next time your mate with a gambling problem talks to you about their next bet. They need your help beating this nasty habit. Lay the facts in front of them to help them see a bigger picture. Most people will listen to the voice of reason.

Promoting responsible gambling is not only up to the government agencies and gambling companies. It is up to all of us to keep the football community healthy and fun to be a part of.