Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky has revealed that the state’s foray into regulated retail sports betting has started off with a bang. In the initial two weeks following its launch on September 7, Kentucky saw a robust handle of $4.5 million. The introduction of mobile betting on September 28 is expected to further boost these figures. With over 60,000 pre-registered mobile accounts, Kentucky is poised for a significant surge in sports wagering activity.
A Promising Start:
Governor Beshear expressed his optimism regarding the promising early results, stating that they reflect the enthusiasm among Kentuckians for sports wagering. As college football and the NFL seasons are now in full swing, coupled with the impending launch of mobile betting, Kentucky anticipates substantial growth in this emerging industry.
Benefits for Kentuckians:
Beshear emphasized that the arrival of sports wagering is a significant milestone for the state. He highlighted that it offers a win-win situation for Kentuckians who can now enjoy a quality entertainment experience while benefiting from the revenue generated, which will be reinvested in the state to support various initiatives aimed at building a better Kentucky.
Key Players in Kentucky’s Sports Betting Market:
Several renowned operators, including Bet365, BetMGM, Barstool Sportsbook, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics, have received licenses from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) to provide mobile betting services. They are set to launch their applications on the opening day of mobile betting. Additionally, Circa Sports Kentucky, holding a license, plans to introduce its mobile application later in the year.
Expanding the Betting Catalog:
Kentucky’s Sports Wagering Advisory Council (SWAC) has recently recommended an expansion of the sports wagering catalog. These additions include Formula One Racing, NRL (National Rugby League Australia), PFL (Professional Fighters League MMA), Bellator (MMA), and the Universal Tennis League. This diversification aims to provide an even more comprehensive sports betting experience for enthusiasts in the state.
Kentucky’s entry into the world of regulated sports betting has already shown promising results, with a $4.5 million handle in its first two weeks. With mobile betting set to launch soon and a roster of licensed operators, the future looks bright for sports wagering in the Bluegrass State. These developments mark a significant milestone in Kentucky’s journey towards a thriving and responsible sports betting industry.