FIFA World Cup 2022: Americans plan to bet $1.8 billion

20.5 million Americans plan to bet $1.8 billion on FIFA World Cup this weekend. Majority of those betting say placing legal bets is important. AGA encourages bettors to keep their financial safety top of mind. The Supreme Court's decision to end the federal ban on sports betting in 2018 allowed a growing list of states to legalize the activity.

Gambling is a hidden addiction, so there are not as many outward signs. Risk factors can include lying to your loved ones about gambling or having difficulty cutting back on betting. NCPG has been able to track through surveys. There has also been a 45% increase in calls to their national helpline between 2021 and 2022. There is not a direct correlation to a rise in problem gambling.

Sports betting is seen as a game of skill, but Whyte says it can be dangerous because people are more confident in their abilities than before. Whytere says that the more people gamble, the less likely they are to win. Mobile sports betting has made people more susceptible to gambling problems.

Some states have enacted gambling regulation to address gambling problems. NCPR created a website that offers tips and resources for bettors to gamble safely. The National Problem Gambling Helpline is a free, confidential help available 24/7.