Caesars Sportsbook, the sports wagering platform for Caesars Entertainment, has unveiled its plans for Central Kentucky. The company has entered into agreements with Keeneland and Red Mile Gaming & Racing, with the goal of opening the region’s only brick-and-mortar retail sportsbook locations, pending regulatory approvals from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission.
Under these new partnerships, Caesars Sportsbook will become an official sports betting partner of both Keeneland and Red Mile. This collaboration is set to elevate the sports betting and horse racing experience for customers in Kentucky.
Expanding into Kentucky’s Historic Horse Racing Scene
Eric Hession, President of Caesars Digital, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture: “Keeneland and Red Mile are iconic horse racing venues with an important legacy in the state of Kentucky. Customers in the region have long enjoyed our world-class Caesars destinations, and, most recently, our horse racing wagering app, Caesars Racebook.”
He continued, “Working with these historic institutions provides an unmatched opportunity to reach sports and racing fans in the state, and we look forward to working with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission as we prepare to launch later this year.”
Keeneland and Red Mile Racing’s Perspective
Shannon Arvin, President and CEO of Keeneland, highlighted the potential of their collaboration with Caesars Sportsbook: “Keeneland’s venture with Caesars Sportsbook holds exciting potential and furthers our mission to introduce new audiences to horse racing. Caesars is a globally respected brand, and we value their commitment to racing and their expertise in sports wagering.”
Shannon Cobb, Chief Operating Officer of Red Mile Gaming & Racing, also expressed his excitement about introducing the historic harness track to new audiences. He emphasized how opportunities with on-site sports wagering, combined with live racing, simulcasting, and Historical Horse Racing (HHR) Games, align with their long-term goals.
Caesars’ Expanding Footprint in Online Gaming
In addition to its physical presence in Kentucky, Caesars Sportsbook is making strides in the online gaming space. The platform has partnered with High 5 Games to provide its titles to Caesars customers in Pennsylvania, further enhancing its digital gaming offerings.
Caesars’ collaboration with gaming supplier Inspired Entertainment in Pennsylvania expands the array of gaming experiences available to its patrons.
Expansion into Ontario with Wazdan Partnership
Caesars Sportsbook & Casino has also ventured into Ontario, signing a deal with Wazdan. This collaboration brings Wazdan’s slots portfolio to the Caesars platform, offering a diverse selection of games. Among the featured titles is “9 Coins,” which has garnered recognition by being shortlisted for the Best New Game category at the EGR North America Awards 2023.
Kentucky’s Progressive Approach to Sports Betting
The expansion of sports betting in Kentucky is another notable development. In April, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law after it received approval from the state Senate. This legislation allows both retail and online betting on a wide range of sports, including professional and college sports, international sports, e-sports, and video game events. With a minimum betting age of 18, the market will be regulated by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, opening up new opportunities for the state’s residents and visitors.
Caesars Sportsbook’s expansion in Kentucky, as well as its digital partnerships and strategic moves into other markets, reflect the company’s commitment to offering diverse and exciting gaming experiences across the United States and beyond.