France plans loss limits for young players, sparking debate

France has taken a significant step towards stricter player protection. The National Assembly has approved amendments to the Professional Sports Bill. These provisions introduce loss limits for online gambling among customers between the ages of 18 and 25. This approach aims to better protect young adults from the risks of gambling. It follows a trend observed in many European countries, though often implemented in different ways.

Numbers and facts

The European regulatory markets have undergone significant changes over the last decade. A decade ago, Europe's regulatory landscape was a patchwork of rules. Today, all EU member states have some form of licensing framework for igaming. However, the path to this point was far from linear or free of tension, as reported in a Special Report by Focus Gaming News in April 2026. In 2016, countries like the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain had already established licensing regimes. But much of continental Europe operated in a legal gray area, with state monopolies or tacit prohibitions. In Sweden, online operators generate 68 percent of the Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) according to the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA). Only 32 percent comes from land-based gambling. In 2024, Casino Cosmopol's profits in Sweden plummeted by 65 percent to 1.75 million US dollars.

Background

The debate about online gambling and its regulation is a constant topic in Europe. While some countries favor state monopolies, others opt for a more liberal licensing model to open the market and ensure player protection. France is among the countries that are more hesitant regarding the full legalization of online casinos. There is a long tradition of land-based casinos that exert strong influence. The Casinos de France association vehemently opposes the opening up to online casinos. They fear catastrophic consequences, including the loss of GGR and approximately 15,000 jobs at land-based casinos. Philippe Bon, CEO of Casinos de France, emphasized that France is an exception, both online and offline, due to the large number of casinos and their deep roots in the communities. Currently, a bill to regulate online casino products as part of the 2025 budget in France has been successfully blocked by land-based operators. Instead, a six-month public consultation was initiated to discuss a possible reintroduction of the bill in late 2025.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For online casinos licensed in Germany, i.e., those on the GGL whitelist, the French development has little impact. German providers already operate in an environment with very strict regulations. The introduction of loss limits in France, especially for young adults, underscores the general trend in Europe to intensify player protection. GGL casinos are already pioneers here. Due to German law, they are obliged to take strict measures. Their business model is based on security, transparency and responsible gaming. These additional protective measures in France indirectly confirm the German approach. They show that comprehensive regulation for player protection is becoming increasingly important. GGL casinos must observe such developments in other countries. However, they are well positioned due to existing high standards.