It’s June 2026 and we’re very much in the throes of World Cup fever.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve fallen down a social media rabbit hole. Watching the Tartan Army taking over Boston with their singing and playful antics is exactly what the World Cup is about. A clash of cultures coming together to enjoy a common passion in football.
England is a nation of optimism when it comes to football. Each time there’s a major tournament the country is consumed by the prospect of winning some silverware, with pubs staying open late and schools and offices scrapping 9am starts to accommodate obscure kick-off times.
The nation most definitely comes together and there’s no denying there’s a special something in the air around tournament time. However, there is a darker side to the World Cup that isn’t talked about but impacts a lot of people.
New figures from the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) have revealed that almost one in eight UK adults are likely to place a bet at the FIFA World Cup.
But when does a fun bet start to become a problem?
We asked the Financielle community about their personal experience when it comes to gambling, here’s what they shared.
“Don’t start. It’s a slippery slope. Even if you think it’s a one-off.”
“I do small & non regular bets – never anything over £5, not worth losing my money over”.
“In my honest opinion, I think it should be banned, or at least HEAVILY restricted”.
“Did it alongside matched betting as a side hustle. Got addicted and lost a lot! Self blocked now!”.
“Me and my partner give ourselves £10 each to bet on who will win the golf majors – a bit of fun!”.
“Consistent gambling is just a money pit! It’s like playing the lottery every day”.
What are the warning signs of becoming addicted to gambling?
GamCare (The National Gambling Helpline) says warning signs can include spending more than you can afford, chasing losses, borrowing money to gamble, or feeling anxious and secretive about your betting.
Where should I go if myself or a loved one is struggling with a gambling addiction?
Contact the National Gambling Helpline for free on 0808 8020 133 or visit gamcare.org.uk
Check out these episodes of The Vault with Financielle where we chat through some dilemmas connected to gambling.
Episode 48 – “My brother in law won’t pay us back”
Episode 65 – “Is my boyfriend taking advantage of me financially?”
Come on England!
Holly