Warning: World Cup office betting pools may be illegal

Colleagues and friends in Sweden might be breaking the law if they participate in betting pools for World Cup matches, especially if many people are involved or the stakes are high. Swedish gambling legislation requires a license for any game involving money, covering everything from sports betting to lotteries.

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The risk is great that you have done something illegal, if you are many who tip or if the stake is high.

An exception exists for private games within a close-knit community, such as among family or intimate friends, provided the stakes are low. My Hamrén, press officer at the Swedish Gambling Inspectorate (Spelinspektionen), explained that such games are permissible if there is a "close mutual community" among participants. While colleagues can be friends, the inspectorate emphasizes the private nature of these exceptions.

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It is permitted if it occurs with a close mutual community between the participants. Colleagues can also be private friends.

The Gambling Inspectorate has not received any license applications for World Cup betting but frequently receives inquiries about organizing such events. They encourage individuals to report any discovered illegal gambling activities. If tips are received, the authority will contact the organizers to explain that the activity is not permitted, potentially leading to an investigation. However, Hamrén noted that such investigations can be lengthy, possibly extending beyond the duration of the World Cup itself.

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We have no planned supervision of World Cup pools.

Regarding specific oversight, Hamrén stated, "We have no planned supervision of World Cup pools." She advised using "common sense" and considering the purpose of the Gambling Act, which is to protect consumers. While the law doesn't define specific amounts for "low stakes" or the maximum number of participants for private games, the emphasis remains on the game's private, non-organized, and non-professional character, with stakes being merely "symbolic."

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One must have a little common sense and think it through.