Gambling operators are leaving the UK, which sites are still valid?

The UK has always had a close relationship with the gambling history. Whether it be the Grand National, football pools or betting on Wimbledon, UK citizens are bound to have had some experience of having a flutter in their lives. Because of this, you may be surprised to learn that several well-known sportsbooks have decided to cease their UK operations in recent times in pursuit of other international markets. Why is this happening and which bookmakers’ doors remain open for UK players?

Why are gambling sites leaving the UK?

The reasons for gambling sites shutting down their UK operations are multi-faceted. One of the key factors though, is the recent change in regulations that is bound to hit the industry over the next few years.

In recent times, the UK Gambling Commission has been tasked by the government to impose stricter rules on betting companies. Most notably, the maximum stake for fixed-odds betting terminals were slashed from £100 to a measly £2 back in April 2019. This is likely to eat into gambling companies profits in the future, leading many companies to abandon the UK market altogether.

This is not the online regulation that has rocked the industry as well. Credit cards were recently banned from being used as online gambling payment. This is also likely to make the UK market far less attractive to gambling companies.

Tougher regulation is clearly one reason for gambling sites leaving the UK and another is the country exiting the European Union. After the 2016 referendum in which Brexit was confirmed, significant financial uncertainty has followed with the UK’s future relationship with the trading bloc still unclear now. Amid these unanswered questions many companies have fled the market in search of more certain ground.

Which gambling sites are still in the UK?

Although many big names such as Royal Panda, BetBright and 188Bet have left the UK market in recent years there remains plenty of options for betting fans in the country. These brands show no signs of abandoning their British players.

A full list of the very best operators out there can be found on acebettingsites.co.uk - but here are a few of our personal favourites.

Bet365

Bet365 is one of the biggest sports betting brands on the planet. Featuring an incredible selection of different markets, competitive odds and best of all, a superb live streaming service, it is a great option for players of all experience levels.

Betway

Founded in 2006, Betway is one of the best options available for UK bettors. Not only does the brand have a superb sportsbook, it also offers players extensive poker and casino options. Its mobile app is also brilliant, making betting on the go and absolute breeze.

BetFred

First hitting the high street all the way back in 1967, BetFred is known as the Bonus King, thanks to the brilliant rewards it constantly offers its players. Its customer service options are unparalleled, and it also treats its players to a long list of different banking options.