Key Points
- Spain’s online gambling surged 21.63% in 2024, with 1.43 million active accounts, driven by welcome bonuses post-2024 Supreme Court ruling.
- The industry generated €8.1 billion in GGR, with sports betting up 23.8%, but rising self-exclusions signal addiction risks.
- The DGOJ’s strict ad rules face challenges as operators spend €526 million on marketing, prompting calls for tighter regulations.
Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and 2030 Agenda reported a 21.63% surge in active online gamblers in 2024, driven by the return of “welcome bonuses” previously restricted by the 2020 Royal Decree.
The $9.38 billion gambling market saw record operator revenues, raising concerns about problem gambling. You’re seeing a booming yet contentious industry navigating strict regulations, potentially affecting betting options and protections.
Why the Surge Happened
The Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) noted a 23.48% rise in monthly active accounts to 1.43 million, with new registrations up 34.73% to 151,898 monthly.
The resurgence of welcome bonuses, curbed until a 2024 Supreme Court ruling, fueled this growth, reversing a 55% drop in new accounts from 2020–2023.
Regional data integration enhanced transparency, highlighting trends like Madrid’s 20% GGR share. For you, this means more betting platforms but increased regulatory scrutiny.
See also:
- DraftKings Faces Federal Lawsuit Over Deceptive Marketing Practices
- Konami Reports U.S. Tariffs Impacted Gaming Division in Q2 2025
- Romanian Gambling Market Faces Overhaul with Tax Hikes and Ad Restrictions
Impact on Operators and Players
The industry generated €8.1 billion in GGR, with online casinos at €730.7 million and sports betting at €608.85 million, up 23.8%.
Operators spent €526 million on marketing, including €261 million on promotions. The DGOJ’s strict ad rules and responsible gambling tools, like deposit limits, remain, but bonus-driven growth raises addiction concerns.
For you, this could mean more promotions but also tighter controls on betting behavior.
Challenges and Public Response
The 45% global unregulated gambling market and a 10% rise in Spain’s 2025 self-exclusion registrations highlight risks, with 20.6% of adolescents gambling illegally.
Public sentiment criticizes bonuses for driving addiction, with calls for renewed ad bans. The Ministry plans stricter measures to protect consumers. For you, this suggests a need for caution with bonus-driven platforms amid evolving regulations.
Broader Implications for Spain’s Gambling Market
Spain’s $9.38 billion market, bolstered by the 2011 Gambling Act, faces pressure to balance growth with harm prevention.
The DGOJ’s €19 million fine on Betway in 2023 shows enforcement rigor. With football driving 42% of betting GGR, operators like Bet365 thrive, but new restrictions may limit promotions.
For you, this indicates a dynamic market with robust options but growing safeguards against risky betting.
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