Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has announced a significant development in the state’s journey towards regulated retail sports wagering. The Sports Wagering Advisory Council (SWAC) has successfully approved a comprehensive wagering catalogue, delineating the sports available for wagering when the regulated sports wagering market opens on September 7. This catalogue marks a pivotal step in shaping Kentucky’s sports betting landscape.
Key Elements of the Wagering Catalogue:
The approved wagering catalogue, greenlit by Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) Executive Director Jamie Eads, provides a detailed list of sports eligible for wagering. To be included in the catalogue, an event must be sanctioned by its respective governing body. Notably, the catalogue is not static; licensees have the flexibility to request additional events for future approval. Furthermore, governing bodies of sports have the authority to request specific limitations or exclusions for certain events.
Included Sports in the Initial Catalogue:
The initial wagering catalogue encompasses a diverse array of sports, ensuring a broad spectrum of options for sports enthusiasts. The approved sports include the National Football League (NFL), Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), and NCAA competitions in baseball, softball, basketball, football, and hockey.
Crafting a Unique Market Experience:
Hans Stokke, the Sports Betting Director at KHRC, highlighted the significance of the wagering catalogue in shaping a distinctive market experience for patrons in Kentucky. The catalogue serves as a foundation for creating a dynamic sports wagering environment that aligns with the preferences and interests of Kentucky’s diverse audience. Stokke emphasized that this curated approach would contribute to a tailored and engaging sports betting landscape within the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Available Betting Options for Kentucky Licensees:
Kentucky licensees entering the sports betting arena will have a comprehensive array of betting options at their disposal. These options include single-game bets, teaser bets, parlays, over-under bets, money line bets, pools, in-game wagering, in-play bets, proposition bets, and straight bets. This diverse set of wagering choices is designed to cater to the varied preferences of sports bettors, offering a holistic and engaging betting experience.
The approval of the wagering catalogue by the SWAC marks a significant stride in Kentucky’s preparations for the official launch of regulated retail sports wagering. By providing clarity on the sports available for wagering and offering a flexible framework for future inclusions, the catalogue sets the stage for a vibrant and regulated sports betting market in Kentucky, enhancing the overall gaming landscape in the state.