The Grand National Festival Generates Up to £100 Million in Black Market Betting

(AsiaGameHub) –   A report from the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) suggests that unlicensed operators handled between £70 million and £100 million in bets during the Grand National festival, illustrating the significant reach of the black market during major UK betting fixtures. Of this figure, approximately £40 million is believed to have been wagered on the Grand National race itself.

The BGC cautioned that high-profile events like the Grand National are prime targets for illegal bookmakers seeking to capitalize on increased betting interest. The council also noted that more stringent affordability checks on licensed firms could inadvertently steer gamblers toward unregulated platforms due to rising costs.

The BGC has frequently pointed out that demanding extensive financial documentation from users may discourage them from using the regulated market.

Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the BGC, emphasized that the focus for policymakers should be on maintaining a safe, regulated environment for bettors rather than pushing them toward illegal sites through excessive regulation.

The council further noted the economic impact of the regulated sector, which contributes over £6.8 billion to the UK economy annually, supports 109,000 jobs, and generates £4 billion in tax revenue—benefits that are absent in the unlicensed market.

Additionally, the BGC warned that illegal gambling is becoming a more prominent issue rather than a niche activity, particularly during major sporting highlights.