There are many countries where legal online sports betting is fully permitted and regulated, e.g., the USA, UK, and Australia, with the global total hitting $77 billion in 2025. That number is climbing fast. In the US, dozens of states have moved to legalize sports betting since the Supreme Court overturned PASPA, fueling a North American revenue explosion.
Just in Ohio, sports betting catapulted to a bold 159% in 2024, reaching $8.9 billion in overall betting activity. Mobile betting apps and sports betting APIs continue to drive this momentum, expanding access and revenue across both emerging and mature markets.
For operators, the challenge is primarily about compliance. Where can you legally offer your betting options? Which country supports your sports betting API model? This article answers that, clearly and practically. If you're ready to launch or grow your sportsbook site, start right where NuxGame is, backed by our professional advice and the markets where legality meets opportunity.
Why “Is Sports Betting Legal Here?” Should Be Your First Question
Before you think about markets, margins, or marketing — think about legality. Even in countries where legal online sports betting is permitted, regulations can vary drastically. One region allows mobile betting apps, another requires land-based affiliation, and yet another may ban in-play bets altogether. Operators who ignore licensing or taxation rules risk heavy fines or total shutdown.
At NuxGame, we work with clients who value strategic growth: and that starts with picking the right legal foundation. Because your sportsbook software can be best-in-class, but without the right legal setup, it won’t last. Hurry and get in touch with NuxGame for professional iGaming legal services and answers to all your licensing questions!
Leading Countries for Legal Online Sports Betting
Every operator looking to start an online betting business knows one thing: entering a legal, regulated market is paramount. It’s the difference between growing an online sports betting site and being shut down mid-launch. The regions below have become global leaders in both retail sports betting and mobile sports betting, thanks to operator-friendly laws and strong consumer demand.
Here’s where we recommend you begin:
- United States. A dynamic, state-by-state landscape. While online sportsbooks are booming in places like Ohio and New Jersey, others still restrict operations to physical venues.
- United Kingdom. Regulated by the UKGC, this market supports both sports betting and online casino operations under strict compliance. It’s mature, trusted, and transparent.
- Australia. Regulated at the state level, Australia permits online sports betting with clear boundaries (but no online casino gaming). A mobile-first mindset makes it ideal for innovative platforms.
With NuxGame’s sportsbook software, you’re launching your sports betting business in the right place, with the right tools, at the right time.
Where Sports Betting Is Legal in Europe
Europe may look like a single sports betting market, but it's anything but. On paper it’s Europe; in action, it’s a bureaucratic jungle. Every operator trying to legalize online sports betting or expand their online sportsbook must first decode the country-specific rules (and there’s little margin for error).
Let’s now discuss it in more detail for operators ready to offer sports betting:
- Germany. The Interstate Treaty (2021) marked the official debut of regulated online gambling, but excessive restrictions have been a dealbreaker for many operators. Even live betting is heavily limited.
- Sweden and Hungary. Both nations continue to support single-operator models, creating limited space for private operators. These monopolies disrupt the EU’s efforts toward unified market regulation.
- Netherlands. Initially progressive, the Netherlands is now tightening up. New laws restrict marketing, cap bonuses, and classify high-risk games as a regulatory priority.
Operators face three main challenges: rollercoaster law updates, disjointed legal obligations, and fierce competition. Even so, it’s fertile ground, packed with digital-savvy bettors and steady appetite. Are you in need of top-level football betting software or a full sports betting market entry strategy? In either case, feel free to turn to NuxGame’s expert assistance without a shadow of a doubt!
Where Sports Betting Is Legal in Africa
Africa’s sports betting market is full of promise, but for operators, it’s also full of regulatory fog, legal grey zones, and sudden policy changes. To succeed, you are going to need a great partner (NuxGame is your best bet here!)
Here’s what operators are dealing with:
- South Africa. You need provincial licenses for regulated sports betting, while online gambling remains banned.
- Nigeria. A hot market, but chaotic rules. One law says yes, another says pay double.
- Kenya. Frozen licenses, rising taxes, and the regulatory Gambling Control Bill stuck in limbo.
- Tanzania and Mozambique. Flexible frameworks, great for startups looking to launch an online betting operation.
When things change overnight, your business shouldn’t collapse. NuxGame’s iGaming platform was made for the ups and downs of global gaming laws. You can launch or expand retail and online betting, build your brand with in-person sports betting — all while providing a reliable betting experience. You don’t control the laws, alas, but the silver lining is that you can control how ready you are. And NuxGame is here to help you with that.
Ready to Offer Legal Sports Betting? Here’s How
The idea of running your own online sportsbook is hard to resist: the sports betting revenue potential is massive. But jumping into a market without understanding local laws is very risky. That’s why every smart move starts with researching sports betting legislation, evaluating states where sports betting is legal, and choosing the right partner. NuxGame supports betting operators at every step: we help you offer legal sports betting, no matter how complex the market. Legal clarity. Market guidance. Global tech. That’s how you bet on sports with staying power. Let’s grow your sportsbook (and keep it growing) together: contact us now!
