With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just hours away, the excitement in Dakar is palpable—not only on the football fields but also in the city’s vibrant betting scene. Over the past five years, the sports betting industry has undergone a digital revolution, making wagers more accessible than ever. Gone are the days of visiting physical betting shops; now, a few taps on a smartphone are all it takes to place a bet. This shift has sparked a surge in participation, with many Senegalese already feeling the adrenaline of the tournament weeks before the first whistle.
Young bettors dive into the digital wave
In a lively Dakar neighborhood club, a group of young football enthusiasts debates the upcoming Senegal-France match on June 16. For Assane, the thrill of betting is irresistible. “I’m planning to split my bets across two apps—one for France and another for Senegal. That way, I cover all my bases,” he explains. My friend even called me, saying, ‘Assane, I need money—let’s bet.’ I told him, ‘Go ahead, let’s take the chance.’”
Mohamed, another passionate bettor, admits the excitement is contagious. “It’s thrilling,” he laughs. I’ve already placed multiple bets on the Lions of Teranga’s opening match against France. First bet: Senegal wins. Second bet: both teams score. Then, Mbappé scores for France, and Sadio Mané for Senegal. If it all happens, I win big!”
A double-edged sword: thrill with caution
Over the past month, Mohamed has wagered a total of 80,000 CFA francs (around €122), netting a loss of 30,000 francs (€45). His bets span leagues worldwide, from the Champions League to minor competitions in the U.S. and China. “There’s no limit to the games you can bet on. But let’s be honest—we lose more than we win,” he admits candidly.
Digitalization breaks cultural barriers
Mohamed’s journey into betting began post-COVID-19, when betting apps exploded across Senegalese screens. Malick Diouf, founder of the Dakar Sport Summit, highlights how digitalization has reshaped the landscape. “Senegal is a predominantly Muslim country where betting was once frowned upon. Going digital has removed the stigma, allowing people from all walks of life to participate without judgment,” he observes.
The industry thrives on the presence of key players like the Russian operator 1xBet, French firm Betclic, and Senegalese group Sunubet. Since November 2025, these companies have seen their revenues taxed at 20%, with a similar levy applied to bettors’ winnings. “The government benefits, but these funds must be reinvested into both professional and amateur sports,” Diouf emphasizes.
The World Cup: a high-stakes temptation
The World Cup is not just a sporting event for bettors—it’s a season of excess. Associations are increasingly warning about the rising risks of addiction during this period.