The gamblification of sport: a critical review of narratives, evidence and research gaps

Authors

  • Marcelo Moriconi Iscte — University Institute of Lisbon, Centre of International Studies (CEI-Iscte), Lisboa, Portugal
  • César de Cima Iscte — University Institute of Lisbon, Centre of International Studies (CEI-Iscte), Lisboa, Portugal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7458/SPP202611145886

Keywords:

gamblification of sport, gambling normalisation, social harms and risks, sports consumption, sport integrity, public policy

Abstract

The gamblification of sport — the integration of gambling into sports ecosystems — has changed how sport is consumed and managed. While sport and political institutions have supported the phenomenon, the literature frames it as a social problem, emphasizing the normalization of gambling, the risks to sporting integrity, and the potential social harms. Based on a critical literature review, this article identifies four spheres of influence: the normalization of gambling, challenges to sporting integrity, transformations in sport consumption, and the financing and promotion of sport. Empirical gaps and conceptual tensions between risk-based approaches and market-driven justifications are highlighted.

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Published

2026-07-30

Issue

Articles in continuous publication

Section

Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Marcelo Moriconi, César de Cima

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