The 2026 FIFA World Cup could become one of the most transformative events in the history of global online sports betting. Unlike previous tournaments, the next World Cup will take place in a market shaped by rapid sportsbook regulation across North and Latin America, creating major opportunities for operators and payment providers alike.
With legalization expanding and digital wallets becoming mainstream, sportsbooks now face a unique chance to attract, convert, and retain millions of new players.
Regulation Creates a Perfect Storm for Growth
Zak Cutler, President of Global Gaming at Paysafe, highlighted how the return of the World Cup to North America for the first time since 1994 will further accelerate betting adoption in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
At the same time, Latin America has made major regulatory advances. Peru launched its regulated market in 2024, while Brazil implemented its new legal framework in January 2025. According to Cutler, this timing positions the World Cup as a growth catalyst for both mature and newly regulated markets.
Paysafe’s report, All the Ways Players Pay: World Cup 2026, found that nearly 19% of fans plan to place their first-ever online bet during the tournament, creating a significant acquisition opportunity for operators.
Latin America Leads in Betting Enthusiasm
The research shows exceptional demand across Latin America. In Peru, 85% of fans who plan to follow the tournament expect to place a bet on each game. Mexico and Brazil follow closely, at 68% and 66%, respectively.
Even in more mature markets, first-time betting remains strong. In Mexico, 26% of fans plan to place their first bet during the World Cup. In Brazil, a newly regulated market, 20% of fans intend to bet for the first time — a major opportunity given the country’s population size.
Payments Play a Decisive Role in Retention
Beyond sports interest, Paysafe’s data shows that payments directly impact conversion and loyalty. While fast deposits matter, players prioritize fast withdrawals, especially during live betting.
Globally, 84% of bettors report higher satisfaction with instant withdrawals, rising to 92% in Brazil. In Peru, withdrawal speed ranks as the most important factor when choosing a sportsbook.
Local Payment Methods Drive Competitive Advantage
Local payment options also shape success in Latin America. In Brazil, the Pix system — used by around three-quarters of the population — dominates, with 48% of Brazilian fans planning to use Pix for World Cup betting.
E-cash remains popular in other markets, including Peru (29%) and Ecuador (27%), while cards still dominate in the US, Canada, and Europe.
Cutler warned that relying on a single payment method creates risk. “If a sportsbook’s cashier does not cover all relevant alternatives, operators risk losing customers to competitors,” he said.
As World Cup 2026 approaches, the combination of regulation, fan enthusiasm, and payment innovation positions Latin America for a surge in first-time bettors and long-term market growth.
