Online betting transaction activity in Mexico increased by 431.75% during the 2026 FIFA World Cup compared with the 2022 tournament, according to data from Mexican fintech company STP.
The company said the World Cup was one of the strongest drivers of digital betting activity in Mexico. The increase reflects not only the scale of interest in the tournament, but also the wider adoption of smartphones, digital wallets and online payment services.
World Cup drives sharp increase in betting activity
STP reported a significant increase in digital betting transactions during the tournament, reinforcing the role of major sporting events as a driver of online wagering in Mexico.
The 431.75% increase is measured against activity during the 2022 World Cup and highlights how quickly both consumer behaviour and digital payment infrastructure have evolved over the four-year period.
The figure reflects transaction activity, rather than the number of unique bettors or operators’ betting revenue.
Digital adoption supports market growth
Data from STP and research by Ipsos Mexico also points to strong consumer interest in betting around the World Cup.
An Ipsos study found that 40% of surveyed Mexicans were very or somewhat familiar with betting. Among those already familiar with the activity, 34% said they planned to bet during World Cup matches.
Among respondents planning to bet, 44% expected to wager between MXN500 and MXN2,000, while another 22% planned to spend between MXN2,000 and MXN5,000.
Payment infrastructure becomes increasingly important
The surge in betting transactions comes alongside the expansion of digital payment infrastructure in Mexico. STP is a Mexican fintech company authorised and regulated by CNBV and Banco de México, providing digital payment and transfer infrastructure.
For betting operators, this infrastructure becomes particularly important during major sporting events, when users require fast and accessible ways to deposit and withdraw funds.
The rapid growth of digital betting also increases the importance of responsible gambling and consumer protection, particularly as major sporting events bring new users into betting platforms.
The 2026 World Cup therefore provided more than a temporary betting boost for Mexico. The more than fivefold increase in transaction activity compared with 2022 also highlights how closely sports interest, mobile technology and digital payments are now connected within the country’s betting market.
Source: SBC Noticias / STP
