As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, new data reveals that fans in Peru are poised to become the most active bettors globally.
According to the report All the Ways Players Pay: World Cup 2026, published by Paysafe, a staggering 85% of Peruvian football fans plan to place online bets during the tournament. This figure places Peru ahead of all other surveyed nations, outstripping traditional powerhouses and reinforcing the country’s rapid adoption of digital wagering ecosystems.
Digital Payments Driving Engagement
The research, conducted by Sapio Research on behalf of Paysafe, surveyed 3,850 consumers across key markets including the U.S., Mexico, Brazil, and Europe. While the global average for betting intention stands at 60%, Peru’s enthusiasm is notably higher, surpassing Brazil (66%), Italy (64%), and the UK (60%).
The report attributes this surge to the widespread integration of digital wallets like PagoEfectivo, which have streamlined the transition to regulated online betting for fans in Peru.
Host Nations Show Strong Numbers
The excitement is also palpable in the host nations. In the United States, 62% of fans intend to wager, with nearly one-third (29%) expected to bet for the first time. Mexico follows with a 68% participation rate, while Canada’s Ontario province trails at 46%.
Beyond mere participation, the study highlights that payment efficiency is a primary driver for choosing a sportsbook. “Brand trust” (38%) and “fast payouts” (33%) rank as the top priorities for bettors, outweighing odds or promotions.
“The 2026 World Cup will be the biggest to date for online sportsbooks, offering an unparalleled opportunity to both acquire new players and bolster existing ones,” said Zak Cutler, President of Global Gaming at Paysafe. “Our latest research suggests that the best way to facilitate player acquisition and retention will be through cashier experiences, as payments will be more critical than ever throughout this tournament—and beyond.”
As the tournament approaches, local payment preferences, such as Pix in Brazil and digital wallets in Peru, are set to play a pivotal role in capturing this record-breaking demand.
