BGC Research Shows Betting is Part of Britain’s Cultural Identity

New research conducted by YouGov on behalf of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has found that 74% of regular punters view betting as an integral part of the nation’s cultural identity.

The findings underscore the role of regulated betting and gaming in the UK’s social and economic landscape, with millions of adults engaging each month in activities such as bingo, horseracing, football, rugby league, darts and snooker.

The poll coincides with a government consultation on potential changes to online betting and gaming taxation. Industry figures have warned that further tax rises could undermine the regulated market, drive consumers to the black market, and place funding streams for sport at risk.

It is estimated that 1.5 million Britons already wager up to £4.3bn annually with unregulated operators, who make no tax contributions and offer no consumer protections. Horseracing authorities recently postponed several fixtures in protest at the proposed reforms – a decision made without consultation with BGC members, whose financial support is considered vital to the sport’s sustainability. The regulated industry currently provides racing with around £350m annually through sponsorship, media rights and statutory contributions.

BGC Chief Executive Grainne Hurst said betting is far more than just a leisure activity:

Betting is not just a pastime – it is a long-standing part of Britain’s cultural and sporting fabric. Our industry supports jobs on the high street, invests in local communities, contributes to grassroots sport and generates billions in tax revenues for public services.

She cautioned that further tax burdens could weaken the regulated market:

Any significant tax hike would risk fuelling reliance on unregulated operators while reducing investment in regulated businesses and the sports they sustain.

The research also reflected wider scepticism towards government intervention, with 31% of respondents saying the government has too much influence over how people spend their disposable income.

Overall, the betting and gaming sector contributes £6.8bn to the UK economy and supports more than 109,000 jobs. Beyond horseracing, betting companies contribute £40m annually to the English Football League and provide additional backing for rugby league, darts and snooker. Around 22.5 million adults in Britain are estimated to place a wager each month.

According to the latest NHS Health Survey for England, the prevalence of problem gambling among adult gamblers is 0.4%. Industry leaders argue that only a stable regulatory and fiscal framework can safeguard consumers, protect jobs, and ensure betting remains a legitimate part of Britain’s cultural heritage.

Read Also: BGC Warns Tax Reforms Could Push Gamblers to Illegal Sites