The sports betting market in Uzbekistan is entering a key phase of development. While 2025 marked the starting point for legalization and the establishment of rules, 2026 is the first year of a mature market, where the real winners, regulatory mistakes, and prospects for players and businesses become clear.
Let’s analyze what awaits the betting industry in Uzbekistan in 2026, which trends will dominate, and why the market is becoming truly interesting right now.
In brief: what has already happened by 2026
By the beginning of 2026, the market has gone through three key stages:
- ✔️ a licensing model has been established;
- ✔️ a circle of officially permitted operators has been defined;
- ✔️ basic control mechanisms (KYC, payment restrictions, bet monitoring) have been implemented.
At the same time, the market is still far from saturation, which means it remains attractive for both players and businesses.
The bookmaker market in Uzbekistan in 2026: current state
Limited number of operators
Unlike Russia or Kazakhstan, in Uzbekistan in 2026, there are not dozens of bookmakers, but a limited pool of licensed platforms. This is a conscious step by the regulator — the focus is on control rather than mass availability.
High demand from players
Interest in betting is steadily growing due to:
- the popularity of football and international leagues;
- the growth of mobile internet;
- trust in the legal status of bookmakers.
Online dominates
Offline betting shops remain secondary. The main growth is in online betting and mobile applications, especially among the 21–35 age group.
Payments and finance: what is important in 2026
In 2026, the key factor of competition will be the convenience of deposits and withdrawals.
Current trends include:
- local bank cards;
- fast transfers;
- growing interest in alternative payment solutions (including digital ones).
Bookmakers that cannot offer fast payouts will lose market share — even with good odds.
Player behavior: how the audience is changing
The player of 2026 in Uzbekistan:
- understands odds better;
- compares bookmakers rather than playing with just one;
- values transparency and stable payouts;
- actively uses mobile devices.
The role of analytical platforms and ratings is sharply increasing — players are looking for independent opinions, not advertisements.
Forecasts for 2026–2027
Growth of competition
Even with a limited number of licenses, bookmakers will compete on:
- odds;
- bonus policies;
- app quality;
- user support.
Strengthening regulation
Control will become stricter: the state will monitor not only taxes but also the social responsibility of operators.
Arrival of new technologies
AI analytics, personalized lines, smart recommendations — all of this will become standard rather than a bonus.
Interview: expert opinion
“Uzbekistan is a market of not quick hype, but a long game”
Exclusive interview with BET RATING and betting business expert Alexey Khaz
— Alexey, how do you assess the bookmaker market in Uzbekistan in 2026?
— This is a market of early maturity. Legalization has already occurred, but real competition is just beginning. In 2026, we see the first systemic mistakes by operators and the first correct decisions. This is a very important stage.
— Can the market be called overheated?
— No, absolutely not. On the contrary — the market is underfilled. There is no oversaturation with advertising, no player fatigue. This is a rare situation for the betting business.
— What will be the main success factor for bookmakers?
— Three things:
- stable payouts;
- convenient mobile product;
- respect for the player.
Odds are important, but without trust, they are worthless.
— And for players?
— I advise players to move away from emotions. In 2026, those who use analytics, compare bookmakers, and understand risks will win.
— Your forecast for 2027?
— The market will grow at least 1.5 times. New betting formats will emerge, and the role of media and rating platforms will strengthen. Uzbekistan could become one of the most interesting betting markets in the region.
Conclusion
2026 is a turning point for the bookmaker market in Uzbekistan.
The era of gray schemes has ended, but the era of fierce competition is just beginning.
✔️ For players — more choice and protection
✔️ For businesses — a growth market
✔️ For analytical platforms — high demand for objectivity
It is now that leaders are being formed, who will be trusted in the next 5–7 years.
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