Virgin Bet, a brand managed by LiveScore Group, has officially launched its operations in South Africa, marking its first venture outside of the UK. The new platform, accessible at Virginbet.co.za, is part of LiveScore Group's strategy to enhance its footprint in Africa. This South African operation aligns with existing betting activities the company has in Nigeria and complements its LiveScore Bet product.
As the largest regulated gambling market on the continent, South Africa is monitored by both provincial and national regulatory authorities. According to the National Gambling Board (NGB), an estimated 1.5 trillion South African Rand, equivalent to $89 billion, was wagered in the country during the 2024/2025 financial year, a 31.3% increase from the previous year. The betting industry accounted for 75% of that wagering total, while casinos contributed 19.5%. Limited payout machines (LPMs) and bingo constituted 3.6% and 1.8%, respectively. By 2024, the gambling sector employed approximately 34,316 individuals, as reported by the NGB.
In light of recent developments, South Africa’s National Treasury has suggested a 20% levy tax for online gambling, indicating a transition towards more structured and potentially increased taxation on digital betting activities, which the sector has largely contested.
Virgin Bet has emphasized its commitment to responsible gambling, affirming that the new site will include various player safety mechanisms such as deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion options. The platform will also implement age verification processes and a local customer support team to ensure compliance and user assistance.
Gail Odgers, the head of marketing for Virgin Bet South Africa, stated, "We’re focused on building trust and introducing Virgin Bet in a way that South Africans can feel confident in." The company has committed to launching further local corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at promoting safer gambling practices within the community.
The South African platform intends to engage the country’s burgeoning sports betting market, with an emphasis on popular sports like football, rugby, and cricket. Odgers added, "Whether it’s football, rugby or cricket, sport is part of everyday conversation. That passion is what makes this market so exciting for us."
