Online gambling issues now account for 82% of disclosures made to GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline so far in 2026, the highest proportion since 2021.
The figure represents the peak level recorded since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, when lockdown restrictions severely limited access to physical gambling venues across the UK.
By contrast, only 36% of callers cited land-based venues as a form of gambling on the Helpline during 2026, the lowest rate recorded since 2021.
The data comes from a total of 3,053 contacts who have reached out to GamCare’s Helpline for support so far this year.
GamCare has issued a warning that the 2026 FIFA World Cup could significantly worsen gambling-related harm across the country in the coming weeks.
The charity pointed to the 2022 World Cup as a reference point, noting that tournament led to an 11% month-on-month increase in people seeking support.
This year’s tournament is expected to be more impactful than ever, as the number of competing teams has expanded from 32 to 48, meaning more matches are available to bet on.
GamCare also highlighted that later kick-off times, caused by the time difference between the UK and North America, provide greater opportunity for people to “gamble in secrecy.”
Victoria Corbishley, Chief Executive Officer of GamCare, commented: “We typically see more requests for help and support during major sporting tournaments, and the World Cup could be particularly problematic for those struggling with online gambling.”
Corbishley added: “Many people who come to our services began by betting on sports before developing patterns of gambling that became harmful, and the data shows young adults could be particularly vulnerable this summer.”
She continued: “We know how quickly this can impact mental health, finances and relationships, and we want people to know we are here to help.”
A YouGov survey commissioned by GamCare earlier this year, which assessed 3,717 UK adults, provided further evidence of the risks facing younger bettors this summer.
The survey found that 32% of adults aged 18-34 who placed a bet on the 2024 Euros or the 2022 World Cup now feel enticed to bet during major international tournaments.
A further 30% from that same age group reported that betting on global sporting events led them to engage with higher-risk gambling products, including online casino games.
GamCare also referenced Paul Nash, a lived experience individual who recalled how tournaments such as the World Cup were significant triggers that encouraged him to gamble more during his younger adult years.
Nash encouraged others who are struggling to reach out directly to the National Gambling Helpline for support before the tournament gets underway.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on 11 June, with matches taking place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico through to 19 July.
