The global sports betting market is worth $100.9 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach $187.39 billion by 2030, according to Grand View Research; Latin America represents an estimated growth of $4.22 billion in this period, and Mexico is emerging as one of the most solid emerging hubs in the region.
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With over 70 million participants in gambling, the country has consolidated its position as a regional powerhouse, driven by the national passion for football, boxing, and baseball, and the sustained growth of digital platforms, according to reports from the Mexican Association of Games and Lotteries (AMJS).
EVOLVING REGULATION
The boom in sports betting in Mexico has coincided with a progressive evolution of the regulatory framework, which has allowed the formalization of digital platforms and the creation of an increasingly secure, transparent environment aligned with international standards.
This transformation has favored the entry of global operators such as Bet365, Caliente, and Playtech, interested in a consolidating market. In this context, the Federal Law on Games and Lotteries, in force since 1947, has had to progressively adapt to the dynamics of the digital environment.
Although this law establishes the legal basis for the sector, its application to online platforms—many of which are domiciled outside the country—has generated debate and motivated recent efforts to modernize the regulatory framework.
During this year, the General Directorate of Games and Lotteries published an update of the fees for operating permits, in an effort to reinforce transparency and formalize the costs associated with legal activities in the sector. In parallel, proposals are being discussed to regulate online casinos operated from abroad, in order to ensure fair competition conditions and protect users.
An important milestone occurred on June 25, 2025, when a reform to the Federal Law for the Prevention and Identification of Operations with Resources of Illicit Origin (Anti-Money Laundering Law) and the Federal Penal Code was approved. This modification classifies the gaming sector as vulnerable to operations with illicit resources, and establishes new obligations and sanctions for operators who fail to comply with prevention, reporting, and monitoring rules. The measure responds to the recommendations issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in its evaluation of Mexico.
Given this new landscape, it is recommended that the industry adopt more advanced security, traceability, and verification technologies, with the aim of complying with international standards and operating sustainably in an increasingly regulated environment. This regulatory transition represents not only a challenge but also an opportunity to strengthen the sector’s credibility, protect consumers, and ensure a modern and competitive digital gaming ecosystem.
PLAYER PROFILE
The average bettor has changed. Today, they are predominantly young, urban, and tech-savvy. According to the MXC platform, the country has a potential player population of around 39.26 million adults, representing significant growth compared to the 33 million estimated three years ago. For its part, Once Diario detailed that the majority of users are between 18 and 35 years old, with a significant concentration in the 18 to 25 age group. This segment, known as Generation Z and younger millennials, is shaping the industry with their unique preferences and affinity for technology.
Likewise, the undeniable preference for the king of sports means that sports betting remains at the heart of Mexicans’ interests. Liga MX and international events such as the World Cup and the Champions League dominate the market.
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Technology and Payment Methods
One of the main catalysts for this growth has been the high internet penetration, which already exceeds 80% of the population. This has facilitated mass access to digital gaming platforms and expanded opportunities for new entrepreneurs and industry players.
The transformation also extends to payment methods. Credit cards, SPEI transfers, and cash payments through OXXO are the most common. Additionally, the use of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum is gaining ground in some betting houses, offering greater privacy and security in transactions.
Added to this is the collaboration between fintechs and sports betting platforms, which has been key to facilitating fast and secure payments, promoting financial inclusion that attracts new players.
EXPANSION WITH INNOVATION
This market has consolidated rapidly and has an annual projection of 5.88% to reach $2.5 billion in revenue by 2025. Likewise, it is estimated that virtual sports betting will represent around 50% of total bets in the country, reflecting massive acceptance of the platforms.
One of the trends in the Mexican market is the simulation of sports events in real-time using advanced algorithms, already representing almost 6% of total online bets.
MOBILE ADVANCES
Likewise, the adoption of mobile applications for sports betting has a projected growth of 46% between 2023 and 2027 in the mobile application market. This increase reflects the change in digital consumption habits in the country, where players prefer the convenience and accessibility offered by the platforms.
According to SBC Noticias, virtual sports betting accounts for around 50% of the total bets placed in the country. This segment, which has rapidly gained popularity due to its 24/7 availability and accessibility, has grown more than traditional betting and is expected to remain one of the main drivers of the industry in the coming years. Furthermore, Generation Z and millennials are playing a key role in this growth, with a significant inclination towards digital platforms and real-time betting, which has led to an evolution in consumption habits.
With a combination of evolving legal frameworks, constant technological innovation, and a young base of bettors, Mexico is positioning itself as one of the most promising markets globally. Growth projections, along with institutional strengthening, position the country as a strategic epicenter for the development of sports betting in Latin America.
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