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Paris – France’s national gambling authority, the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), is raising concerns about the addictive potential of online platforms allowing users to bet on the outcomes of political and sporting events. The ANJ warns these sites, which have seen a surge in popularity, present risks similar to traditional online gambling but lack the same regulatory protections for users.

The regulatory body emphasizes that these prediction markets are currently considered illegal gambling operations within France. The ANJ has requested that internet service providers implement “geoblocking” measures to prevent French users from accessing these platforms, with the exception of those utilizing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). This action underscores a growing international effort to regulate these increasingly popular, and potentially harmful, online spaces.

The rise of prediction markets, particularly platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi, has been notable, especially following the 2024 US presidential election. According to the ANJ, cumulative transaction volumes on these major global platforms exceeded $27.9 billion (23.7 billion euros) between January and October 2025. Revenue generated by these platforms is estimated at $2 billion (1.70 billion euros), primarily through transaction fees, according to a study by Citizens.

Addictive Characteristics and Lack of Protection

The ANJ’s primary concern stems from the addictive characteristics inherent in these prediction sites, which it says are amplified by the absence of safeguards commonly found in licensed online gambling environments. “As these prediction sites present several addictive characteristics similar to those observed for online gambling, but amplified due to the absence of protection mechanisms existing on the legal gambling market, the ANJ calls on users to exercise caution,” the authority stated in a press release.

These protections, typically mandated for licensed operators, include tools for self-exclusion, deposit limits, and responsible gambling messaging. The lack of such features on prediction markets leaves users vulnerable to developing problematic gambling behaviors.

International Crackdown and Legal Challenges

France is not alone in its efforts to regulate these platforms. Several other European countries – including Germany, Belgium, Romania, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Poland, Greece, Cyprus, Ukraine, and Portugal – have also blocked access to Polymarket, citing concerns about unlicensed gambling services.

The situation in the United States is more complex. Even as Polymarket received authorization from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in November 2025 to offer betting to American residents, the Nevada Gaming Control Board has filed a lawsuit against the platform, arguing that its prediction markets constitute illegal gambling and should be subject to blocking measures. This legal challenge highlights the ongoing debate over the regulatory status of these platforms.

The ANJ’s Role and Future Outlook

The ANJ, established by an ordinance in 2019, operates as an independent administrative authority reporting directly to the French Parliament. As detailed on its official website, the ANJ’s mandate includes regulating licensed gambling and betting games, protecting players, and combating illegal gambling activities. Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin currently serves as the President of the ANJ, appointed to a six-year term by decree of the French President.

The ANJ’s warning signals a potential global trend towards increased scrutiny and regulation of prediction markets. As these platforms continue to grow in popularity, governments worldwide will likely grapple with how to balance innovation with the need to protect consumers from the risks associated with gambling-like activities. The outcome of the Nevada Gaming Control Board’s lawsuit against Polymarket will be a key indicator of the direction this regulation may capture.

What remains to be seen is whether a coordinated international approach will emerge to address the challenges posed by these platforms. The ANJ’s actions demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding French citizens, and its stance may encourage other nations to follow suit.

Share your thoughts on the regulation of prediction markets in the comments below.

Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi will stand trial following an allegation of rape made against him, the player confirmed Tuesday. The 24-year-old woman accusing Hakimi alleges the incident occurred at his home in Paris in 2023. Hakimi, a key player for both PSG and the Moroccan national team, vehemently denies the accusations.

The case has progressed to the trial stage after a preliminary investigation was launched by the public prosecutor’s office in Nanterre, a western suburb of Paris, in March 2023. Hakimi addressed the situation publicly on his X account, stating, “Today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial. This is as unjust to the innocent as it is to the genuine victims. I calmly await this trial, which will allow the truth to come out publicly.” No court date has been set at this time.

Investigation and Initial Response

The Nanterre prosecutor’s office has yet to release a detailed statement regarding the specifics of the case, but confirmed they are proceeding with a trial. BBC Sport has reached out to the prosecutor’s office for further comment. The allegations surfaced last year, prompting an immediate investigation by authorities. Hakimi has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the process.

Impact on PSG and Upcoming Fixtures

Despite the serious allegations, Hakimi was included in Paris Saint-Germain’s squad for their upcoming Champions League match against Monaco. PSG will host Monaco on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions League knockout round play-off tie. He was named in the initial squad list published last Tuesday, indicating the club is allowing the legal process to unfold before taking further action.

Hakimi’s Career Highlights

The 27-year-old, born in Spain, represents Morocco internationally and has turn into a prominent figure in world football. He has made 194 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain, contributing to their success in winning both the Champions League and Ligue 1 titles last season. His consistent performances earned him recognition at the Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony in Paris on Monday, where he was named to the FIFA/FIFPro Men’s World 11.

Hakimi was also instrumental in Morocco’s historic run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where they became the first African nation to reach the semi-finals. His contributions on the field have solidified his status as one of the most exciting full-backs in the game.

Legal Process and Next Steps

The upcoming trial will be a critical juncture in this case. The legal proceedings will involve the presentation of evidence, witness testimonies, and legal arguments from both the prosecution and the defense. Hakimi’s legal team is expected to vigorously defend him against the allegations.

The outcome of the trial remains uncertain, and the process could grab considerable time. The focus will be on establishing the facts of the case and determining whether there is sufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

As the legal process unfolds, all parties involved are subject to legal constraints and are limited in what they can publicly discuss. The case is expected to attract significant media attention, given Hakimi’s high profile as a professional athlete.

The next confirmed step is the setting of a trial date by the Nanterre court. Until then, the situation remains fluid, and updates will depend on official announcements from the legal authorities involved.

We encourage readers to follow this developing story for further updates and to engage in respectful discussion in the comments below.

Undisputed heavyweight champion Claressa Shields has cemented her place at the pinnacle of women’s boxing, with her promoter, Dmitriy Salita, declaring her the pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter in the world. The assertion comes on the heels of Shields’ dominant unanimous decision victory over Franchon Crews-Dezurn on Sunday, extending her perfect professional record to 18-0. The debate over the top spot in women’s boxing has long centered around Shields and Katie Taylor, but Salita firmly believes Shields has earned the distinction.

Shields’ accomplishments are undeniable. A two-time Olympic gold medalist, she has amassed a remarkable 18 world championships across five different weight classes. She is the only female boxer to have held major world titles in three separate weight divisions, a testament to her versatility and dominance. This sustained success, coupled with her growing ability to draw crowds, sets her apart, according to Salita.

While acknowledging the significant impact of Katie Taylor, a trailblazer in the sport, Salita emphasized Shields’ unique combination of in-ring prowess and star power. “Katie Taylor is a historic figure in boxing, and I’ve said many times – personally and professionally – that I’m a fan of hers and what she has done for the sport,” Salita told Sky Sports. “That said, Claressa Shields is definitively the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in women’s boxing today.”

Shields’ Rise to the Top

Salita highlighted that Shields possesses an “IT” factor, the ability to headline events and consistently sell out arenas, regardless of her opponent. He believes this ability to draw fans is a key differentiator. Shields’ career has been marked by consistent challenges and a willingness to move between weight classes, demonstrating her commitment to facing the best competition. A pivotal moment came in 2022 with her victory over Savannah Marshall in London, a fight widely considered a contender for fight of the year. Sky Sports reported on Salita’s comments following Shields’ recent win.

Looking Ahead: Mayer as a Potential Opponent

Following her heavyweight title defense against Danielle Perkins, Shields is now setting her sights on a potential clash with unified world super-welterweight champion Mikaela Mayer. Mayer has recently secured back-to-back victories over Sandy Ryan and Mary Spencer, solidifying her position as a formidable opponent. Salita indicated that Shields is open to returning to the 160-pound weight class to pursue meaningful fights, including a potential bout with Shadasia Green. BoxingScene.com noted that Salita sees the matchup with Mayer as a logical next step for Shields.

Salita emphasized Shields’ relentless pursuit of greatness, noting her willingness to travel and grab on any challenge. “Since the very beginning of her career, Claressa has chased greatness,” he said. “She’s moved up and down in weight. She’s crossed oceans. She has taken on the toughest challenges available to her.”

The rivalry between Shields and Crews-Dezurn, which began with their first professional bout in November 2016, culminated in a respectful exchange after Sunday’s fight. Salita noted the mutual respect that developed between the two fighters, acknowledging their shared contributions to elevating women’s boxing. Crews-Dezurn underwent evaluation for knee and ankle issues before being cleared to compete, demonstrating her commitment to the match.

As Claressa Shields continues to dominate the sport, the question remains: who will be the next challenger to test her reign? The potential matchup with Mikaela Mayer looms large, promising a compelling clash of styles and a significant test for both fighters. The future of women’s boxing appears bright, with Shields leading the charge and inspiring a new generation of athletes.

What are your thoughts on Claressa Shields being ranked as the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the conversation.