Thailand has officially legalized poker betting, marking an important step towards esports betting legality.
On July 29, 2025, the Sports Authority of Thailand officially recognized poker as a competitive sport under the government’s official definition. This reclassification legalizes poker as a betting activity under Thai law, and players can bet on games they are participating in. This is the first time the Sports Authority of Thailand has added a non-traditional sport to its legal betting list, and therefore sets a precedent for esports.
Thai publication The Standard first reported on the story on July 29. The Thailand Poker Association hosted a press conference to celebrate, which also included plans for the first real-money poker tournament in Thai history. President of the Thailand Poker Association Latthasanya Piensomphan cited the performance of Thai poker players as a major influence. Thai player Punnat Punsri is considered one of the best players in the world, and his fame could have helped influence government policy.
Is esports betting legal in Thailand?
Esports betting is not legal in Thailand as of 2025, but the recent legalization of poker betting could help pave the way for the future.
The Gambling Act of 1935 severely restricts betting in Thailand. The only legal forms of betting are the government-regulated lottery and horse racing. Even traditional sports betting is illegal. Regardless of laws, many Thai citizens are still able to use foreign betting sites to gamble on traditional sports, esports, and casino games.
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The Thailand Poker Association cited Punnat Punsri’s peformance in international poker competition as a possible influence on the law. If citizens’ performance could help legalize esports betting, Thailand has plenty of stars across multiple titles to look to. Dota 2 icon Anucha “Jabz” Jirawong is the highest-earning gamer in Thai history with over $1.3 million in winnings. His former teammate Nuengnara “23savage” Teeramahanon isn’t far behind at just over $870,000. Thailand is also home to several Free Fire and PUBG Mobile stars such as Chirasak “Joena” Moonsarn and Piyapon “TheCruz” Boonchuay.
With poker setting the precedent of non-traditional sports being fair game, esports could soon be on the table for gamblers in Thailand.