Sports betting in Russia has become increasingly prevalent over the past several years, with Russian citizens taking advantage of both domestic and international sports betting options.
The Russian government has yet to create a comprehensive legal framework for sports betting, although there are some laws in place that regulate gambling activities.
For example, in 2016 a law was passed that bans all forms of online gambling and restricts any onshore gambling activities to certain designated regions.
However, despite these restrictions on actual physical gambling, citizens are still able to make wagers on sporting events through international bookmakers and through illegal betting shops known as “tote” or “sport pools”.
Although this activity is technically not legal in Russia, authorities have made little effort to shut down these operations and prosecute those involved.
This has led many Russian bettors to view sports betting as an acceptable form of entertainment, since they can participate without fear of repercussion from the government.
The popularity of sports betting among Russians can be attributed to the country’s rich sporting culture.
Football is by far the most popular sport in Russia, with many fans following both local teams and those from other countries around the world.
Due to football’s popularity and its prominent position in everyday life, it has become a major draw for sports bettors who view it as an exciting way to make money off of their knowledge and love for a particular sport.
Other popular sports among Russians include ice hockey, basketball, tennis, handball, volleyball and rugby union.
In addition to football-related bets that are available through international bookmakers, Russians can also take part in parimutuel horse racing wagers at state-sanctioned racetracks throughout the country.
With more than 200 racetracks operating across Russia today, this offers bettors a wide range of options when it comes to placing their wagers.
Overall, although there are still some restrictions on actual physical gambling activities within Russia’s borders due to existing legislation, citizens are still able to partake in various forms of sports betting through international bookmakers or illegal betting shops – making it an increasingly popular pastime with no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
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