Published on: January 22, 2026, at 09:23h.

Updated on: January 22, 2026, at 09:29h.

• Paysafe, a leading provider of igaming payment solutions, forecasts a significant rise in first-time and casual bettors this summer.
• According to Paysafe research, 60% of World Cup enthusiasts intend to place online bets.
• Sportsbook operators are strategizing ways to retain these initial depositors.

Research from Paysafe indicates a major increase in first-time and casual betting during the World Cup 2026. The key challenge for operators will be how successfully they can keep these bettors engaged after the tournament concludes.

The survey revealed that 19% of global fans interested in this summer’s World Cup in Canada, the USA, and Mexico plan to make their first online bet.

19% Ready for Their Initial Bet

In its report titled All the Ways Players Pay: World Cup 2026, Paysafe highlighted that 60% of World Cup followers globally aim to bet online, presenting a significant opportunity for online sportsbooks.

Among states in the U.S. where sports betting is permitted, 62% plan to place bets, with 29% being first-timers. Mexico shows even more enthusiasm, as 68% intend to wager, including 26% who will bet for the first time. In Canada, 46% of Ontarians expect to place bets, with 9% being newcomers, according to Paysafe’s report.

This interest is echoed internationally, particularly in newly regulated markets like Brazil (66% planning to bet) and Peru (85%). In established European markets, enthusiasm remains high with Italy (64%) and the U.K. (60%).

Paysafe emphasizes the necessity for operators to provide versatile, dependable payment options and quick payouts to leverage the betting surge effectively. Their findings show that brand trust ranks highest (38%), with fast payouts (33%) closely following.

Shifting Focus from Bonuses

Beyond payment solutions, how can sportsbooks secure and maintain the interest of casual and first-time bettors?

Phill Gray, former head of trading at Sports Interaction and a sports betting consultant, notes a shift away from extravagant initial sign-up bonuses typical in the industry.

“Fraud and abuse remain significant concerns, so operators are now prioritizing retention for first-time depositors,” remarked Gray. “Multichannel branding (across social media and devices) enhances conversion rates. The real focus should be on a ‘frictionless onboarding’ experience, ensuring a smooth journey from the first click to making a deposit.”

Transitioning Sports Bettors to Casino Games

Digital gaming platforms are actively working to convert bettors to casino games right from the start, offering incentives like “free chips with your first wager,” free bets on initial wins, or “refunds for specific losing bets,” he added.

“Terms and conditions must be transparent and straightforward for newcomers,” Gray stated. “This includes having rules easily accessible and providing prompt responses from trained customer service representatives.

“Additionally, offering instant withdrawals can boost retention by at least 25%. Once the World Cup concludes, continued engagement with new accounts is crucial. This includes targeted promotions and organic outreach towards upcoming events tailored to the user’s interests and location.”