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For this year's FIFA World Cup, the best way to place bets online from California will be with bitcoin using a cryptocurrency wallet that can be linked to one's banking account. Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court arrived at a landmark decision paving the way for individual states to begin allowing legalized sports wagering provided the proper legal framework is in place. For now, a few dozen of internationally licensed sportsbooks will accept wagers on this year's World Cup.
*Bookmaker Welcomes Players From Around the World - Most Crypto-Currencies Welcome
WILL CALIFORNIA WELCOME SPORTS BETTING?
It's the world's eighth largest economy so California entering the sports betting arena would be huge. It just won't happen in time for the 2018 World Cup and maybe not even the upcoming football season.
“I think today’s SCOTUS decision represents a significant opportunity for California tribal gaming, and will benefit all California tribes,” said Michael Frawley, Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of Spotlight 29 and Tortoise Rock Casinos, in a statement.
Mark Macarro, Tribal Chairman of the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, was also optimistic. The tribe operates the Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula.
“We view sports betting as a potential amenity that would complement our numerous offerings,” he said in a statement. “Now that the Court has ruled, we look forward to engaging in a conversation with fellow tribal leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to see if there is a path forward for sports betting in California.”
In a statement, California Nations Indian Gaming Association Chairman Steve Stallings said California should “move slowly” on sports betting policy and urged the state to give tribes “a place at the table” in those discussions. The association’s 34 member tribes include the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians in San Jacinto and the Morongo Band of Missions Indians in Banning.
“We also want to make very clear that California voters have, on numerous occasions, confirmed the exclusive right of California tribal governments to operate casino-style games,” he said. “Legalization of sports betting should not become a backdoor way to infringe upon that exclusivity.”
With California's legislature shutting down for the year very shortly, passage of a law allowing sports betting is highly unlikely for 2018.
Needless-to-say, California gamblers will need to rely on international websites to place all their World Cup bets.
HOW TO USE BITCOIN AND OTHER CRYPTOCURRENCIES FOR BETTING THE FIFA WORLD CUP
The online betting site will simply have you send them the special address/token obtained from the Bitcoin wallet or exchange.
You would select either SEND (to deposit funds) or RECEIVE (to withdraw funds).
Some exchanges allow customers to link directly with their bank accounts or PayPal. The Bitcoin can be converted into the currency of your choice then transferred into your account in as little as 24 hours.
You will want to verify all your information (including personal identification) with the exchange prior to sending and receiving funds. Typically they will suggest setting up an authenticator on your mobile device for added security.
- Aaron Goldstein, Gambling911.com
