Opened new accounts for the World Cup? How to tidy them up before Christmas
The 2026 World Cup, played from 11 June to 19 July and won by Spain, was the biggest betting event the sport has seen. Many people opened new accounts to claim welcome offers. Months later, those accounts are still there, sending emails and holding your details. Before the Christmas promotions arrive, it is worth an hour to tidy them up.
By Ryan Jessop. Published .
Key points
- The 2026 World Cup ran from 11 June to 19 July, with a record 104 matches.
- Gamstop saw sign-ups dip on England match days and rise on the next working day.
- Unused accounts can hold small balances, payment details and marketing permissions.
- You can close an account at any time; a casino must return any withdrawable balance.
- For any account you keep, a deposit limit and the right marketing choices take minutes.
- Tournament
- 11 June – 19 July 2026
- Matches
- 104
- Winner
- Spain
- Gamstop pattern
- Dips on England match days
- Time to tidy up
- About an hour
- Cost
- Free
A five-step account tidy-up
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. List them | Search your email for welcome messages from June and July |
| 2. Check balances | Withdraw any cash; bonus balances usually expire |
| 3. Marketing | Switch off email, text and app notifications you do not want |
| 4. Close or keep | Close accounts you will not use again |
| 5. Limits | Set a deposit limit on any account you keep |
Closing accounts properly
Closing an account is not the same as self-excluding. You can usually close it through settings or live chat, and the casino must let you withdraw your balance first. If you want to stop gambling altogether, Gamstop blocks every licensed site at once. Our guide to closing a casino account covers both, and reopening an account explains what happens if you change your mind.
Before the festive offers arrive
December brings a wave of promotions to existing customers. Deciding now which accounts you want, and setting marketing preferences, means you choose what reaches you. If you joined several sites from the same group, check sister-site rules before claiming another welcome offer.
18+. Gambling should be entertainment, never a way to make money. Free, confidential help 24/7: National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133, or see our safer gambling page.
Frequently asked questions
When was the 2026 World Cup?
From 11 June to 19 July 2026. Spain won the final.
How do I close a casino or betting account?
Through account settings or live chat. Withdraw any cash balance first.
Is closing an account the same as self-exclusion?
No. Closing ends one account; Gamstop self-exclusion blocks all UK-licensed sites.
Will I lose my balance if I close an account?
Withdrawable cash must be returned to you. Bonus funds usually expire.
Related pages
Sources
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