Super Bowl LVIII Betting Hits Record High with Shift to Legal Wagers
The anticipation for Super Bowl LVIII is reaching unprecedented levels, not just for the game itself but also for the betting surrounding it. According to a recent American Gaming Association (AGA) survey, a staggering 67.8 million American adults, which equates to 26% of the population, are expected to place bets on the game. This represents a 35% increase from the previous year, with bettors planning to wager an estimated $23.1 billion, significantly up from $16 billion in 2023.
Legal Betting Takes the Lead
The survey highlights a significant shift in betting practices, with traditional sports wagers overtaking casual bets for the second year in a row. This year, 42.7 million American adults are expected to place traditional sports wagers, marking a 41% increase from 2023. Casual betting, involving friends or participation in pool or squares contests, is also on the rise, with 36.5 million individuals planning such bets, up 32% from the previous year. Notably, there is a continued trend towards the legal market, with 28.7 million adults, or 11% of the population, intending to use legal U.S. sportsbooks for their online wagers.
Emphasis on Responsible Gambling
The AGA, under the leadership of President and CEO Bill Miller, emphasizes the importance of responsible gambling, especially in light of the Super Bowl being held in Las Vegas for the first time.
The industry’s investment in responsible gambling education appears to be making an impact, with 75% of traditional Super Bowl bettors reporting exposure to a responsible gambling message in the last year. Furthermore, nearly half of all American adults recall seeing or hearing such a message, indicating a growing awareness of the need for responsible betting practices.
Highlighting the importance of responsible betting, Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL running back Mark Ingram II will join AGA’s Bill Miller in promoting responsible play. Ingram emphasizes the enhancement of sports excitement through legalized betting and the importance of maintaining responsible wagering practices.
The Betting Landscape
With the legalization of sports betting expanding across the U.S., currently available in 38 states and Washington, D.C., a significant portion of American adults (67%) now live in areas with legal sports betting markets.
The AGA’s Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly.™ campaign continues to unite stakeholders in the sports betting ecosystem to advocate for responsible gaming, with NFL teams like the Washington Commanders and New York Jets among its partners. As Super Bowl LVIII approaches, the betting landscape reflects not only a growing enthusiasm for sports wagering but also a collective effort towards ensuring a safe and responsible betting environment.
With the game’s outcome nearly evenly split among bettors, the excitement extends beyond the field, highlighting the evolving nature of sports betting in America.
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