Gambling is a pastime that many people enjoy around the world.
And, as we have seen many times, athletes and sports people love nothing more than to gamble because many of them have that bit of extra cash and time on their hands.
However, for footballers in particular, it can be a tricky situation.
In many countries, football is the number one sport in terms of gambling, according to the most experienced bookmakers, online sportsbetting sites and services.
It’s almost famed somewhat because of accumulator and in-play betting.
And it makes sense, too, because there also happens to be a trove of information and data out there which can be used to help decide what to add to a football bet when there are fixtures worth checking out.
But, while all that applies to mere mortals and the general public, you could say that footballers themselves are even more clued up.
Not only do footballers know the game and how it plays and have that experience of what to expect, but they can also be privy to a lot of information that regular people aren’t.
For example, they may be aware of injuries that haven’t been disclosed or transfers that will happen in the future.
This puts them in a position where they can use their inside knowledge to gain financially. And this is ultimately why football players are not permitted to gamble on any football-related betting.
It may seem harsh, especially when players could be betting on other leagues, teams and markets that don’t concern the club they represent themselves, but there is too much of a risk that footballers could be using information to their advantage to cheat sports betting operators.
Or passing on said information for others to use, as seen when Daniel Sturridge informed people close to him of an impending transfer, which, in the end, broke down at the eleventh hour.
But there is more to gambling than just betting on football, and it may even be a welcome relief for some players who enjoy gambling but want to have a break from football.
Over the years, it’s become incredibly common for footballers to be seen playing at casinos.
Not only are land-based gaming venues fun, but they’re ideal for team night outs too, which makes them a great pick.
And, there is the positive of knowing that there won’t be any punishments from the authority when playing games such as roulette.
Another element of gambling that footballers have really taken to and are permitted to do so is horse racing.
Again, akin to what we see with casinos, a day at the races is often picked out for a team to head to together as a sort of bonding experience.
And not only is it common to see footballers enjoying days out at the races and placing bets, but many of them have also invested in horses of their own over the years.
It’s another way for players to enjoy gambling and everything that goes with it legally.
