Sports betting in the United Kingdom is legal when operated under the Gambling Act 2005, which modernized gaming regulation and transferred licensing authority from magistrates’ courts to local councils and the UK Gambling Commission (2).
All betting operators, whether land-based or online, must obtain an operating licence from the UK Gambling Commission, ensuring they meet strict requirements around fairness, anti-money laundering, and consumer protection (1).
"When you place a bet with a licensed gambling business, you enter into a legally enforceable contract with that business. Gambling businesses must make the terms and conditions of the bet available to you before you place a bet."
Remote gambling regulations additionally require offshore operators to secure a UK licence and adhere to the Commission’s codes of practice, including measures for safer gambling and age verification, maintaining the integrity of the sports betting market.
Source:
https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/public-and-players/guide/status-of-a-bet-as-a-contract
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents
Last updated: 22-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
