A Perfect Storm for Problem Gambling Recovery Comes to Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium

For anyone concerned about gambling, it’s important to be aware of the risks presented by the NCAA College Football National Championship Game coming to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on January 19, 2026, which can create a “perfect storm” for those in recovery for a gambling problem. This year’s biggest college football showdown is happening right here at home — and between the Miami Hurricanes’ appearance and the venue’s sponsorship by Florida’s sole legal sports betting operator, it’s a high‑risk event for individuals working to maintain their recovery and avoid triggers.

All of us living in Florida know storms; the energy, strength, and damage that can be done by them. There is no controlling a storm as it approaches. For someone in recovery from a gambling problem, even watching the forecast – the talking heads predicting how the college football playoff games will go and which teams will end up in the championship – can be triggering.

The Profound Impact of Sports Betting Legalization on American Sports Culture

Many have noted how the widespread legalization of sports betting in America has permanently changed the experience of watching sports. These days, most sports programming and especially those nationally televised come with an impossible-to-ignore stream of sports betting ads. Betting odds, parlays, and live lines are now integrated into nearly every sports commentary, making gambling feel like part of the sport itself.

In Florida, online and mobile sports betting became fully legal and operational in late 2023, after clearing key legal challenges. Since then, contacts to the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine in Florida have increased significantly, and Online Sports Betting has dominated as the most commonly reported Primary Gambling Problem. The most recent HelpLine data bears this out.

From July 1 – December 31, 2025, Online Gambling (of all types) held the top spot as the gamblers’ most frequently cited primary gambling activity, reflecting the preference of almost half (47%) of gamblers in need of problem gambling supports. The types of gambling activities most frequently cited as being the Primary Gambling Problem of gamblers, among 818 help contacts received where this information was provided, included Online Sports Betting (31%), Electronic Gambling Machines (29%), Online Casino Games (16%), Cards and Table Games (12%), and Lottery games (9%). For more of the most recent HelpLine statistics and data comparisons, see our full Activities Report.

The Risks for Problem Gambling are Rising, and Not Only for Adults

Most Floridians can gamble safely as a form of entertainment, but for those who have a problem, the growing surge of sports betting opportunities woven into the fabric of sports events can feel like an inescapable storm. As the game approaches, advertisements will appear on the news, across social media, and throughout sports programming.

Although the legal age for sports betting in Florida is 21, we know that young people are especially vulnerable – both to peer pressure and to the constant stream of ads that often appeal to youth. No longer is gambling confined to the walls of a casino, and sharing access is as easy as passing the smartphone. Many times, kids and adolescents gain access to sports betting through a parent’s account. Some may have even received sports betting gift cards as holiday gifts! Even though the holiday season is behind us, the message from the Gift Responsibly Campaign carries throughout the year – find out why by learning more here.

Worried? Help and Hope are Always Available: 888-ADMIT-IT

If you’re concerned about your gambling or that of a loved one, don’t wait to reach out. In Florida, the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine is staffed around the clock to provide support, information, and free resource referrals for anyone seeking help for themselves or a loved one. The service is confidential, multilingual, and available 24/7 to anyone in Florida. Call or text the HelpLine number today, or open a live chat now.