young people from the suburbs directly targeted by the operators?

Sports betting commercials, shot like rap clips, promise fame and prestige. Easy money would be the engine of the social ladder. Young people, more specifically those from the suburbs, would be the target. Far from the promised fortune, two of them testify. At 16 and 18, they have been playing for several years, and are accumulating losses. “In two years, I lost around 2,500, 3,000 euros”confides a young bettor.

Like them, a third of 15/17 year olds bet online. The fashion was propagated by social networks. On Instagram and Facebook, influencers display a lifestyle supposedly obtained thanks to bets, made of trips, luxury hotels and bundles of tickets. Some even sell their forecasts: the “tipsters”.

The practice is illegal, punishable by two years in prison and a fine of 300,000 euros. On social networks, however, they are legion, and offer subscriptions ranging from ten to several hundred euros. Some are directly affiliated with operators, who pay them commission or bonuses. While 12% of 15-17 year olds are addicted to gambling, associations are calling for a tougher law.