Poll: Will bet365 take the lead in Italy?
The world's largest online gambling operator looks to replicate its regulated Spanish market success in Italy
Bet365’s Italian launch this morning will have shaken up operators in Europe’s most important regulated market.
The entry of the sportsbook giant into a hugely competitive market will add pressure onto the likes of William Hill and Paddy Power, who have invested heavily in Italy.
Paddy Power said in its H1 results it held a 13% market share in Italy and was well positioned for future growth through its strong mobile offering.
Meanwhile William Hill noted revenue growth in Italy was strong, up 44% on the previous year, and highlighted as one of its key opportunities for growth.
But bet365 will be a formidable competitor and will be hoping to replicate its success in Spain where it holds close to a 50% market share.
The Italian sports betting market is more evenly distributed with William Hill, bwin.party, Lottomatica and Paddy Power among the leaders with Eurobet, Snai and Sisal close behind.
So will bet365’s sportsbook nous and strong mobile offering allow it to quickly gain a lead in Italy or is the local and foreign competition too strong for it to stand out?
Cast your vote on the right hand side of the page.