Sports betting has become a booming industry in Africa, with millions of people placing wagers on their favorite teams and sporting events. Fueled by the rise of mobile technology, internet penetration, and a deep-rooted passion for sports, the sports betting market in Africa is thriving. This article explores the most popular sports for betting in Africa, key markets, and the factors contributing to the growth of the industry.
Best Bookmakers - March 2025
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1. Football (Soccer) - The King of Sports Betting
Football is by far the most popular sport for betting in Africa. With the continent producing world-class footballers and having strong domestic leagues, it is no surprise that most bets are placed on football events. Popular leagues include:
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English Premier League (EPL) – The most followed league across Africa.
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UEFA Champions League – Features top European clubs with African superstars.
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La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, Ligue 1 – Other top European leagues attracting bettors.
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African Club Competitions – CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.
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Local Leagues – South Africa’s PSL, Nigeria’s NPFL, and Kenya’s FKF Premier League.
2. Basketball - A Rising Market
Basketball betting is gaining traction, particularly with the growing popularity of the NBA. African fans closely follow teams like the Lakers, Warriors, and Bucks. The emergence of Basketball Africa League (BAL), backed by the NBA, has further boosted basketball betting on the continent.
3. Rugby - A Staple in Southern Africa
Rugby is a dominant sport in countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Namibia. Betting on events such as the Rugby World Cup, Super Rugby, and the Currie Cup is common. South Africa’s strong rugby culture, particularly with the success of the Springboks, fuels this market.
4. Cricket - A Niche but Growing Market
Cricket is a major betting sport in South Africa and Zimbabwe. International tournaments like the ICC World Cup and T20 leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) attract bettors.
5. Athletics - Betting on Track and Field
Africa has produced some of the greatest long-distance runners in history. Events like the Olympics, World Championships, and marathons see betting action, particularly in Ethiopia and Kenya.
6. Esports - A New Frontier
With the digital transformation in Africa, esports betting is on the rise. Games like FIFA, CS:GO, and Dota 2 are attracting younger bettors, particularly in countries with strong internet access.
The Growth of Mobile and Online Betting
The biggest driver of sports betting in Africa is the widespread use of mobile phones. With over 80% of internet users accessing the web via mobile, betting companies have developed mobile-friendly platforms and apps to accommodate the demand.
Key factors fueling mobile betting include:
- Affordable smartphones and data plans.
- Mobile money services like M-Pesa (Kenya), Airtel Money, and MTN Mobile Money.
- The ease of placing bets anytime, anywhere.
Regulation and Legal Landscape
Sports betting is legal and regulated in many African countries, but the laws vary. Countries like South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana have structured regulatory frameworks, while others have more relaxed rules, allowing offshore betting companies to operate.
Conclusion
Sports betting in Africa continues to grow at an impressive rate, with football leading the market, followed by basketball, rugby, and esports. The expansion of mobile technology and digital payment systems has revolutionized the industry, making it more accessible to millions of bettors across the continent. As regulations continue to evolve, Africa is poised to become one of the biggest sports betting markets in the world.
