Experts Warn Rise in Sports Betting Could Change Olympics Viewing Experience

Increased focus on betting could shift fans from enjoying the games to working to make money, experts say.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As Oregon sees a surge in sports betting since legalizing it in 2019, experts warn that the rise in betting on the Winter Olympics could fundamentally change how many viewers experience the games. Sports commentator John Canzano believes betting will drive more viewership, but associate professor Tanner Cooke cautions it could make the viewing experience more stressful and less about enjoyment, shifting fans from being fans to being more like workers trying to make money.

Why it matters

The increased prevalence of sports betting, especially on niche events like the Olympics, raises concerns that the focus of viewers will shift away from the athletic competition and spectacle and more toward the financial aspects of gambling. This could detract from the spirit and entertainment value of the Olympics for many fans.

The details

Oregon legalized sports betting in 2019, and since then it has skyrocketed in popularity. DraftKings now allows bettors to wager on a wide range of Olympic events, from hockey to curling. Last month, Oregonians spent $82 million on sports betting through DraftKings, with over $11 million in losses. Sports commentator John Canzano believes this gambling boom will "drive viewership" of the Olympics, but associate professor Tanner Cooke warns it could make the viewing experience more stressful and less about enjoyment, shifting fans from being fans to being more like workers trying to make money.

  • Oregon legalized sports betting in 2019.
  • Last month, people in Oregon spent $82 million on sports betting via DraftKings.

The players

John Canzano

A sports commentator who has closely followed sports betting in Oregon for years.

Tanner Cooke

An associate professor at Portland State University who is concerned about the impact of increased sports betting on the Olympics viewing experience.

DraftKings

An online sports betting platform that allows bettors to wager on a wide range of Olympic events in Oregon.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If anything's been proven, it's cricket, table tennis, darts, if you can bet on it, people are interested in it.”

— John Canzano, Sports Commentator (kgw.com)

“This gambling thing is going to drive viewership.”

— John Canzano, Sports Commentator (kgw.com)

“The viewer, the fan, has shifted from that of a fan to someone who is almost working if you will, to make money from it.”

— Tanner Cooke, Associate Professor, Portland State University (kgw.com)

“If you have an addictive personality, and that thing is in your hand, that is a tough position to be in.”

— John Canzano, Sports Commentator (kgw.com)

“Can somebody just enjoy it to enjoy it, or is that all lost?”

— Tanner Cooke, Associate Professor, Portland State University (kgw.com)

What’s next

Experts will continue to monitor the impact of increased sports betting on viewership and fan engagement during the Winter Olympics.

The takeaway

The rise of sports betting in Oregon has the potential to fundamentally change how many people experience the Olympics, shifting the focus from athletic competition and entertainment to financial gain. This raises concerns about the loss of the true spirit of the games for many fans.