Key Takeaways French National Gambling Authority directed ISPs to restrict Polymarket access effective July 16, 2026 Violations include unauthorized gambling operations, addiction-inducing me
French authorities have mandated that internet service providers restrict access to Polymarket, a widely-used prediction market platform, over violations related to unauthorized gambling activities and potential outcome tampering.
France Blocks Access to Polymarket Website
According to Reuters, France’s gambling regulator ANJ has ordered internet service providers to block access to prediction market platform Polymarket, alleging that it offers illegal gambling services. The regulator said the platform… pic.twitter.com/5r6vEJslDP
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On July 16, 2026, the Autorité nationale des jeux (ANJ) enacted the blocking directive. According to the regulatory body, Polymarket conducts operations in France without proper licensing, and promoting unauthorized gambling platforms constitutes a criminal violation punishable by fines reaching 100,000 euros ($114,000).
The ANJ highlighted that the platform incorporates “addictive features” characteristic of regulated gaming while circumventing mandatory consumer protection standards required of licensed providers.
French regulators telegraphed their enforcement intentions as early as November 2024, when initial blocking plans were announced due to the platform’s failure to meet domestic gambling regulations.
The regulatory authority cited particular alarm over potential market manipulation. Officials indicated that certain weather-related wagers showed signs of tampering, with indications that meteorological sensors may have been compromised.
In May 2026, the cybercrime division of the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated a formal investigation into these allegations.
Authorities additionally discovered that Polymarket operated without adequate identity verification protocols, including required Know Your Customer procedures.
The platform enables users to trade contracts based on future event outcomes, spanning elections, sporting events, and economic indicators. Polymarket has experienced rapid expansion, with Reuters sources indicating annual revenue exceeding $1 billion.
However, this explosive growth has attracted heightened regulatory scrutiny. Access to the platform is currently restricted in 36 territories, encompassing Singapore, Poland, Portugal, Hungary, Ukraine, Brazil, and Indonesia.
Spanish authorities imposed a temporary prohibition on Polymarket and competitor Kalshi in May 2026. The following month, the leading US derivatives oversight agency published preliminary regulatory frameworks for the prediction market sector.
In June 2026, Kentucky initiated legal proceedings against Polymarket, Kalshi, and three additional platforms, alleging operation of unlicensed sports wagering services. A minimum of 17 additional states have filed comparable lawsuits.
The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission has contested these state actions, filing counter-suits asserting its exclusive federal jurisdiction over event contract regulation.
Polymarket has not issued an immediate response to inquiries regarding the French access restriction. The ANJ indicated the blockade will continue indefinitely until the platform achieves compliance with French gambling legislation.
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