French state-owned gambling operator Française des Jeux (FDJ) is set to up its profile within French football, following the national team’s triumph at World Cup Russia 2018.
This week, FDJ marketing announced that it had secured four new Ligue 1 partnerships with Olympique Lyonnais, Olympique de Marseille, FC Nantes and AS Monaco beginning season 2018/19 (Ligue 1 start date – 10 August 2018).
FDJ’s increased presence within Ligue 1, follows news that the operator had its highest wagering/handle World Cup ever, as France was gripped by Les Bleus’ journey to Russia 2018 glory.
French regulator ARJEL has published industry statistics, revealing that French consumers wagered a record-breaking €690 million during Russia 2018.
The €690 million wagering figure, represents more than the French wagering turnover for Brazil 2014 (€290 million) and the 2016 UEFA European Championship (€297 million) combined.
In the ARJEL update, FDJ details that it had recorded €333 million in Russia 2018 betting handle, with France’s matches against Belgium (semi-final) and Croatia (final) breaking all previous market records.
In its June communication, the French government confirmed that FDJ would be privatised as part of the nation’s ongoing enterprise strategy.
The governing En Marche party will be allowed to divest control of FDJ, betting and lottery services on the condition that it revamps France’s national gambling framework.
This week French news sources reported that UK National Lottery operator Camelot is firmly expected to be at the forefront of FDJ bidding, as En Marche prepares to declare its opening price for the state-owned asset.
Source: SBC News
