The Evolution of Sports Betting in Singapore Explained

The Evolution of Sports Betting in Singapore Explained
Written by
Harsh Chauhan
Last Modified
November 28, 2025

If you are a die-hard fan of sports betting and you reside in Singapore, then you might have noticed the wave of sports betting that has given birth to thousands of sportsbooks.

Singapore has seen the evolution of sports betting in terms of regulatory framework and advanced technology. We recommend our readers to look for reliable platforms with a variety of betting markets, payment options, and bonuses. This guide explains the innovation of sports betting culture in Singapore and how the sport has evolved over the years.Available on desktop and mobile, Vave offers generous welcome bonuses, up to 1.5 BTC plus 100 free spins for the casino, and up to 1 BTC for sports. Moreover, with weekly reloads, VIP rewards, a Fortune Wheel, slot races, and referral earning tiers, Vave casino site stands out in modern crypto‑gaming.

Historical Background

Gambling had been a part of the culture of Singapore since its colonial era, with different ways of betting such as cockfighting and illegal gambling dens. But these were strictly regulated and outlawed over time. In 1968, Singapore Pools was created as a licensed betting company to control illegal gaming. This was an important milestone as it gave gamblers a legalized forum while raising funds for social purposes.

Creation of Legal Framework

The creation of Singapore Pools significantly influenced the legal landscape for sports betting. Initially dedicated to lottery games such as Toto and 4D, over time it added sports betting avenues. The establishment of the Casino Regulatory Authority in 2008 further cemented the regulation of gambling operations in Singapore. In 2022, this authority was renamed to the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA), evidencing continuous efforts to keep pace with the developing gambling scene.

Growth of Sports Betting in Singapore

With the setup of Singapore Pools, sports betting possibilities started to thrive. Punters had the chance to bet on mainstream sports like horse racing and soccer. The opening of resorts such as Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa in 2010 deeply altered the domestic betting scene by luring tourists and locals alike, upping the experience.

Horse Racing

  • Horse racing in Singapore has been popular since 1842 when several racing enthusiasts, including William Henry McLeod Read, banded together to introduce the sport.
  • The innovation of sports betting culture in Singapore encouraged the engagement and importation of races by awarding monetary prizes to those who won the race.
  • The sport became popular with the city-state’s only race track being in Kranji, which has an illustrious heritage of 180 years old.
  • Despite this, horse racing suffered declining attendance as the Japanese occupation worsened the decline during World War II. This affected the horseracing industry and resulted in its inevitable decline.
  • Many horse racing enthusiasts have still remained loyal to the sport but young wagers may not be equally drawn to it due to its outdated image and expensive nature.
  • The evolution of Singapore’s sports betting has rejuvenated this industry, allowing it to organize more legal horse racing events for its punters.
  • Sports betting trends in Singapore show many sportsbooks have started to offer racing options.

Golf

  • The evolution of the golf betting industry in Singapore is worth mentioning. Through the engagement of the local community along with tournaments and monetary rewards, the sports betting culture was promoted.
  • Early 19th-century figures like John Gilmour and other Scottish merchants were instrumental in establishing the golf club in Singapore in 1891.
  • Golf betting was legalized in Singapore only recently and is currently regulated by the Singapore Pools.
  • The new regulations under the Singapore Pools harmonize the different gambling laws and introduce new protections and duties for vulnerable players.
  • The  best golf betting sites provide online betting options and advanced statistics that help players place wise bets.
  • Players who engage in illegal betting in Singapore can face a fine of up to $5,000 and six months of imprisonment.

Cricket

  • In the early 19th century, cricket enthusiasts such as William Henry McLeod Read played a key role in introducing cricket betting to Singapore.
  • Founded in 1852, the Singapore Cricket Club became a central institution for cricket and other sports, promoting sports culture and civic involvement across the country.
  • Cricket betting was eventually legalized in Singapore, though it is regulated by strict laws designed to maintain order and minimize associated risks.
  • Currently, the Singapore Turf Club and Singapore Pools are the only two state-backed organizations offering remote cricket betting services, including access to cricket betting sites  for local bettors.

Online Sports & eSports Betting

  • The 21st century saw many tech-savvy fans and innovators drive the growth of online sports betting in Singapore.
  • This contemporary take on sports betting sought to promote increased involvement with the emergence of the Internet.
  • The popularity of other leagues and esports has risen with the domestic Singapore Premier League, where players can place bets on competitions from across Asia and Europe.
  • Another sport that has become particularly popular in Singapore is basketball. The frequency of matches and the game’s global appeal have resulted in a massive rise in betting markets on various sports betting sites.
  • Many platforms have also started to offer esports betting options, including Counter-Strike, Dota 2, and League of Legends. These popular titles are featured on numerous esports betting sites, providing fans with exciting wagering opportunities.
  • Players can make deposits and withdrawals with convenient payment methods – debit cards being the most preferred, followed by prepaid cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.
  • For those interested in a broader gaming experience, , Online Casinos in Singapore are also gaining popularity, allowing players to make deposits and withdrawals with convenient payment methods – debit cards being the most preferred, followed by prepaid cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.

Recent Trends in Sports Betting In Singapore

Record Betting Turnover: Singapore Pools achieved a record turnover of S$12.2 billion in the financial year 2023/24, up by 7% compared to the preceding year, as a result of increasing interest in sports betting and other betting activities.

Variety of Betting Markets: Football is still popular among bettors, with huge interest also developing in basketball and tennis. The number of betting choices continues to grow, providing variety for different sports fans.

Growth of eSports Betting: eSports has become a trending betting segment, with titles such as Dota 2 and League of Legends commanding large audiences and betting volumes, suggesting a move towards the youth market.

Growth of Online Betting: The ease of online media has contributed to the growth of digital sports betting, with players preferring online services because of easy access and competitive odds.

Live Betting Popularity: In-play or live betting is becoming increasingly popular, enabling punters to place bets as matches unfold with live updates and changing odds, increasing the overall betting experience.

Technology Integration: Advanced technology, such as machine learning and data analysis, is enhancing betting strategy and user interfaces across different platforms.

Conclusion

Singaporeans perform sports betting on popular sports such as horse racing, golf, and cricket. Almost 70% of the sports bets are placed on such events, which clearly demonstrates Singaporeans’ passion for sports betting. With so many fun betting options available across sporting events, the vibrant scene in Singapore offers something for all types of players to get involved with. Additionally, understanding tips and strategies for sports betting can significantly enhance a bettor’s experience, helping them make more informed decisions and increasing their chances of winning.

The key to safe gambling is to find what excites players the most and confidently place bets based on sound strategies and research.

FAQs

When did gambling start in Singapore?

Gambling began in 1923 when the industry was legalized in the then-British colony.

The legal requirements for a sportsbook in Singapore lie in the principles of the Betting Act, the Private Lotteries Act, and the Common Gaming Houses Act.

Singaporeans love to bet on horse racing, golf, cricket, and esports.

Categories

Latest Posts

See more
The Evolution of Sports Betting in Singapore Explained
Harsh Chauhan
WRITTEN BY
Harsh Chauhan, our editor hails from a background that bridges gambling, crypto, web3, and automotive, industries that never sleep, occasionally crash, and always demand a seatbelt. With over six years of experience across the wild west of the internet, Harsh has covered everything from the blinking chaos of online slots to the blockchain’s most bizarre headlines. If it spins, flips, roars, or risks your paycheck, he has probably written about it. Harsh has contributed to not just a few passion projects, he's worked with major publications that cover high-stakes events, insights from the crypto market, and has edited enough articles to know that 80% of writers today use the word “volatile” thanks to a new friend who helps them with work.
| FOLLOW US