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BGC estimates $135M Boxing Day black market bets
In a statement published on December 26, 2025, Britain’s Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) revealed that Boxing Day betting activity will potentially see a betting volume of over $135 million placed in black markets.
The BGC noted the number shows the growth of unregulated betting and the increased risks posed during peak sporting events.
Boxing Day is expected to generate 1% of total annual turnover, which means tens of millions could be wagered on illegal platforms in just 24 hours.
Grainne Hurst, CEO of the BGC, said:
“Boxing Day is one of the biggest days of the year for sport and betting, and the harmful illegal black market is gearing up for a huge payday, with Brits set to stake up to £100 million illegally in just 24 hours. That money goes straight to criminal operators who offer zero protection and pay no tax. If higher taxes make regulated betting less attractive, the harmful black market will be the only winner. That is bad for consumers, jobs, and the public finances.”
On this note, the BGC has urged policymakers to collaborate with the licensed industry to make sure that extensive consumer protection measures don’t push players to the illegal market.
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