FIFA World Cup 2026 Sparks Mexico to Update Gambling Laws

Mexico is moving to modernize its gambling laws in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a regulatory development set to significantly impact the country’s iGaming sector. The Federal Gaming and Lottery Law, originally passed in 1947, is considered outdated, failing to address advancements such as mobile betting, digital casinos, and online gaming platforms. This legal gap has allowed offshore operators to enter the market, posing risks to consumers and resulting in lost tax revenue. Industry stakeholders, represented by AIEJA, the Association of Permit Holders, Operators, and Suppliers of the Entertainment and Gambling Industry, have urged the government to update legislation in time for the tournament. Leading figures from Codere, Betcris, and Winpot have highlighted the importance of reform, warning that without regulatory clarity, betting activity could migrate offshore, reducing economic benefits and oversight. The Ministry of the Interior is overseeing efforts to draft a new Federal Gaming and Raffles Law, incorporating input from operators to ensure practical and enforceable regulations. Proposed measures include age verification, betting limits, and responsible gaming guidelines, all aimed at creating a safe and structured environment for players. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, is expected to generate a surge in betting activity, potentially matching a full year’s wagering volume within a single month. Timely legislative updates will allow Mexico to fully capitalize on this opportunity, offering consumers a regulated betting environment while maximizing tax revenues and economic growth. Finalizing the new law will not only protect players but also establish a modern framework for Mexico’s iGaming industry, setting a benchmark for regulatory compliance and market expansion in the region. With less than a year remaining before the tournament, collaboration between regulators and operators remains critical to achieving these objectives.