ITALY
Italy is one of the largest, most mature and financially powerful Tier 1 gambling markets in Europe. Italian gambling combines a strong offline sector, a well-developed network of gaming halls and casinos, as well as one of the most active online betting and casino product markets.
Italy is among the European leaders in terms of turnover in slots, video lottery and sports betting. The market is characterized by high audience engagement, strong demand and strict government control.
Online casinos in Italy
Online casinos in Italy operate exclusively under a state license. All operators are required to comply with strict rules for working with players, bonuses and game limits.
Mandatory state license.
Clear bonus limits.
Control of game algorithms.
Euro support (EUR).
Enhanced player protection measures.
Online casinos in Italy are focused on transparency, stability and long-term work with the audience.
Land-based casinos and gaming halls
Offline gambling in Italy is represented by licensed casinos, slot machine halls and video lottery points. The onshore sector remains a key part of the industry.
State control of all establishments.
Limits on the number of machines.
Control of payments and equipment.
Age limit 18 +.
Regulation of hall locations.
Slot machines and VLT terminals form a significant part of the offline market turnover.
Sports betting and betting
Italy is one of the largest sports betting markets in Europe. Betting is legal, strictly licensed and massively distributed among the population.
Most popular destinations:- Football (Serie A).
- Tennis.
- Basketball.
- Formula One and motorsport.
- Esports.
Live bets, express trains and long-term bets occupy the bulk of the bookmaker's turnover.
Regulation and licences
The gambling regulator in Italy is the state body ADM (Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli).
Mandatory licensing of operators.
Strict KYC and AML checks.
State control of all operations.
Ad restrictions.
Player self-exclusion programs.
Work without an ADM license is blocked throughout the country.
Payment methods
Italian players actively use both classic banking instruments and modern fintech solutions.
Bank cards.
Bank transfers.
SEPA payments.
E-wallets.
Limited use of cryptocurrencies.
Speed of withdrawal and transparency of commissions are the most important competitive factors.
Popular games and formats
The game preferences of Italian players are centered around the following areas:- Video slots and automata.
- Video lottery (VLT).
- Roulette and card games.
- Live casino.
- Sports betting.
Players appreciate stable RTP, frequent winnings and a large selection of slots.
Mobile gambling
Italy demonstrates a high level of mobile consumption of gambling content.
Active use of smartphones.
Bookmakers and casino mobile apps.
Quick deposits in one click.
Live betting from mobile devices.
The mobile segment forms a significant part of all traffic.
Advertising and responsible play
Italy is known for some of the toughest restrictions on gambling advertising in Europe.
Almost a complete ban on advertising campaigns.
Mandatory risk warnings.
Strict control of bonus offers.
State player protection programs.
Developed mechanisms of self-exclusion.
Responsible play is a mandatory standard for all licensed operators.
Why Italy is a Tier 1 market
The Italian market combines:- huge turnover in slots and rates;
- developed offline infrastructure;
- high activity of the online audience;
- solvent players;
- tough government regulation.
Italy is one of the largest and most financially capacious Tier 1 gambling markets in Europe. Slots, video lottery and sports betting dominate here, with the strictest possible state control. For operators, this is a market with huge turnover and high competition, for players - stability, protection and a wide selection of legal gambling formats.