Table of Contents
French Gambling Authority Signs Off On FDJ’s 2026 Program: France’s gambling regulator, the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), has approved La Française des Jeux’s (FDJ) betting and gaming program for 2026. While this confirms FDJ’s exclusive rights in the French market, the approval comes with a set of conditions meant to limit harmful gambling behavior.
The decision follows the ANJ’s latest annual report, which revealed a worrying rise in problem gambling for the first time since 2020. The number of people who chose to self-exclude from gambling increased from 40,000 in 2021 to 85,000 in 2024. Because of this, the regulator is paying closer attention to how gambling is promoted and how games are designed.
Tighter Rules on Advertising and Online Games
The ANJ has told FDJ to stop using promotional language that suggests players are likely to win. Phrases like “more than x chances in x to win” or “best chance to win €X” are no longer allowed. FDJ argued that these phrases help bring attention to its lottery and sports betting games in stores, but the ANJ believes they can be misleading.
The regulator is also looking closely at some of FDJ’s online games, especially those it considers more addictive. These include repeated online draws, digital scratch cards, and “Web Exclusive” games. FDJ has been asked to either change or remove these games due to their higher risk for vulnerable players.
Some restrictions are staying in place. The online version of the Amigo draw game is still banned, and the ban on repeated draw formats will continue. Scratch cards are also being closely controlled. The existing ban on €3 scratch games remains, and FDJ is now limited to offering only two €5 scratch card games.
The ANJ also wants to see fewer online-only games in the €2 to €5 range, since these make up a large part of FDJ’s instant win options.
Scratch Cards Still Pose a Risk
Scratch cards remain the second most popular gambling product in France, right behind traditional lottery games. In 2024 alone, around 20 million people played scratch cards, spending a total of €10.7 billion.
While many players see scratch cards as a fun pastime, the ANJ’s research shows the risks go up for those who play both online and in stores, especially at higher price points. The data also shows that high-risk players are more affected by advertising and enhanced gameplay features. Because of this, the regulator may take further steps to reduce harm in this area.
What This Means for France’s Gambling Future
The approval of FDJ’s plan shows the ANJ is willing to support the gambling sector, but only with stronger controls in place. As player protection becomes a bigger priority, operators may need to rethink how they market and deliver their products, especially online.
ALSO READ: How To Qualify For Dubai’s 10-Year Golden Visa As A Gamer or Esports Talent
