The American Gaming Association (AGA) has published a new survey on the upcoming Super Bowl LVIII. According to the association, a quarter of the American adult population (26%, or 68 million) is expected to wager a whopping $23.1 billion on the Big Game.
This figure would represent a significant increase from the $16 billion Americans wagered last year. The higher numbers were attributed to the increase in states where sports betting is now legal.
Based on a sample of 2,204 adults, the AGA concluded that 42.7 million American adults will likely place a traditional sports wager online, at a retail sportsbook or with a bookie. This represents a 41% increase from 2023.
In the meantime, 36.5 million are planning to bet casually with friends or as a part of a pool or squares contest, up 32% from 2023.
The AGA also pointed out that more and more bettors are now wagering with legal sports betting operators. According to the association 28.7 million adults, or 11% of the adult population, are planning to bet using a regulated US sportsbook.
The AGA also said that 47% of bettors are planning to bet on the Kansas City Chiefs against 44% planning to bet on the San Francisco 49ers.
Bill Miller Highlights the Importance of Player Protection
AGA’s president and chief executive, Bill Miller, commented on the figures, saying that America is experiencing record interest in wagering. He added that this means that player protection is more important than ever, which is why the AGA will continue prioritizing investment in responsible gambling tools.
In line with that, 75% of Super Bowl bettors have reported seeing responsible gambling messages. In addition, 47% of all American adults have heard or seen a responsible gambling ad at least one time in the past year, up from 40% in 2022.
During Super Bowl week, AGA’s Miller will join forces with ex-NFL professional and current Fox Sports Big Noon Kickoff host Mark Ingram II. The two will comment on the state of sports betting in the US and the importance of safer gambling.
The thrill of the game and the passion of the fans are what make sports so rewarding and fun. Legalized sports betting builds on this excitement. That’s why I’m thrilled to partner with the American Gaming Association to encourage fans, whether it’s during the Big Game or throughout the year, to keep it social and wager responsibly.
Mark Ingram II
For reference, sports betting is now legal in 38 states and Washington DC, providing over 67% of all adult Americans with access to legal betting.