This study examined the prevalence of gambling behaviours and gambling-related harms among people who play grassroots football. It further explored how gambling becomes embedded in grassroots football culture in England. The researchers surveyed 270 grassroots football players (ages 11–68 years) to assess gambling prevalence. They then interviewed 39 adult players, coaches, and club officials to explore the connections between gambling and football practices. The survey findings highlight a higher prevalence of at-risk and problem gambling among people who play grassroots football compared to the general population in Britain. During the interviews, participants shared the deep connections between gambling, social drinking, and football playing and watching. Social interactions between club members drive and normalize gambling as part of grassroots football culture, while the use of football knowledge (displayed though gambling wins) helps young players gain social status within the club.
