FDJ United posts decline in revenue for Q1 2026
FDJ UNITED reported a three per cent decline in first-quarter revenue to €895 million despite a small increase in gross gaming revenue (GGR), as softer sports scheduling and structural factors weighed on performance early in the year.
The European betting and gaming group posted GGR of €2.175 billion for the three months to March 31, but revenue was impacted by €24 million in additional gaming taxes.
FDJ United said momentum slowed toward the end of the quarter due to fewer long-cycle draw games, less compelling sports fixtures and a high payout ratio in retail sports betting.
FDJ United Chairwoman Stéphane Pallez said global headwinds were making life tough for the company, but predicted it to rebound in the second half of 2026.
“In an environment still affected by the impact of tax increases and tighter regulations on gaming, the Group is stepping up its efforts in operational efficiency, synergies, and financial discipline, with the aim of returning to sustainable, value creating growth from the second half of the year onwards, for the benefit of all its stakeholders,” she said.
Within its core French lottery and retail sports betting division, GGR remained stable at €1.74 billion, while revenue fell 2% to €627 million. Point-of-sale revenue declined 3% to €546 million, although this was partially offset by continued strength in instant games and a 1% increase in online lottery revenue, which now accounts for 15.5% of total lottery sales.
The online betting and gaming unit reported a tougher quarter, with GGR down 1% to €342 million and revenue falling 8% to €213 million. However, excluding the UK and Netherlands, GGR rose 6%, supported by solid growth in France and Sweden and a 3% increase in active players.
FDJ UNITED said it expects slight GGR growth for full-year 2026, with performance in the online division forecast to improve in the second half as ongoing recovery measures take effect.
With the FIFA World Cup on the horizon, sports betting sites are bullish with their outlook for the remainder of 2026, with it consistently one of the biggest wagering events of all time.
