How this World Cup is being used to turn teenage boys into gambling addicts

How this World Cup is being used to turn teenage boys into gambling addicts examines how digital betting has shifted sports wagering into everyday, algorithm-driven experiences. The article argues that smartphones, social media, and online platforms enable constant access to betting, while profiling systems target young men with precision. It contrasts earlier eras, when placing a bet was more limited and often required an in-person trip to a bookmaker, with modern “in-play” and micro-betting formats that split games into rapid, repeatable micro-markets. The piece says this accelerates decision-making and turnover, making wagering more immersive and continuous. It also frames sport as a recruitment ground for online gambling brands, emphasizing the role of real-time engagement in sustaining betting behavior. The article focuses on the industry’s evolution rather than any specific World Cup game outcomes.