Mexico Gambling Industry Calls for New Rules Before World Cup 2026

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Table of Contents

  1. Mexico Gambling Industry Calls for Reform
  2. The World Cup 2026 and Betting Growth
  3. Why Industry Leaders Say Change is Urgent
  4. Calls for an Advisory Group on Regulation
  5. Risks of Staying with Outdated Laws

Mexico Gambling Industry Calls for Reform

The Mexico gambling industry is calling for urgent legal updates before the FIFA World Cup 2026. Current laws regulating casinos and betting date back to 1947, long before the rise of online gambling. The Association of Permit Holders, Operators, and Suppliers of the Entertainment and Gambling Industry (AIEJA) argues that the government must take action now to avoid falling behind in the global online betting market.

According to experts at a recent event in Lisbon, modern betting rules are key for Mexico to make the most of the growth the World Cup will bring. iGaming Business reports that the sector has seen similar situations in other markets, where a lack of updated rules led to challenges in preventing illegal betting channels.

The World Cup 2026 and Betting Growth

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be historic, hosted across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For Mexico, as one of the host countries, excitement and player activity are expected to spark a surge in online bets.

Aviv Sher, CEO of Codere, explained that the tournament would lead to major growth in gross gaming revenue (GGR). He highlighted that the event could be the biggest opportunity yet for licensed betting operators to reach new players and expand in the region.

Why Industry Leaders Say Change is Urgent

Industry professionals warn that the lack of proper rules could cost Mexico billions in lost revenue. JD Duarte, Chairman of Betcris, compared the World Cup to cramming a full year of betting into just one month. He noted that in past tournaments, betting numbers surged across all regions. However, without flexible and clear laws, a large portion of this activity could move to offshore or unregulated bookmakers.

This concern reflects global trends. Countries with outdated betting laws often see rising black-market activity, which puts consumers at risk and limits tax income.

Calls for an Advisory Group on Regulation

Winpot CEO Yono Sidi proposed creating an advisory group that would unite operators and regulators. This group could give expert advice on drafting rules that work in practice and protect consumers at the same time.

AIEJA President Dr. Miguel Ángel Ochoa Sánchez was encouraged to lead this coordination. Duarte also urged the association to open structured talks with regulators to ensure a balanced regulatory plan.

Such cooperation between government officials and businesses could create a sustainable environment where betting companies thrive while customers enjoy safe, fair play.

Risks of Staying with Outdated Laws

Experts agree that sticking to Mexico’s 1947 law will not support the coming betting boom. If lawmakers fail to modernize the framework, operators fear a missed opportunity to strengthen the economy, protect consumers, and create a transparent gambling market.

With the World Cup just around the corner, the pressure is mounting on lawmakers to act. This tournament could either boost a strong regulated market or highlight outdated laws that block potential growth.

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