Kentucky launches retail sports betting
State opens doors on bricks-and-mortar locations with online sportsbook able to accept wagers from September 28
Governor Andy Beshear will place the first bet in Kentucky when it becomes the 35th state to launch sports betting on Thursday.
From today, a host of brick-and-mortar sportsbooks will allow sports betting including Cumberland Run, Derby City Gaming, The Mint Gaming Hall at Cumberland Run in Corbin, and Oak Grove.
Beshear placed a $20 parlay bet for the “over” on wins for the University of Kentucky and University of Louisville football teams, and the “under” on Duke University’s football team.
“Today is a great day to celebrate and have a little bit of fun doing so,” said Gov. Beshear.
“It has taken many years to get here, but sports wagering is finally a reality in Kentucky. This is a win-win for Kentuckians, who can enjoy a quality entertainment experience and benefit from funds staying right here in our state to help us build a better Kentucky,” The Bluegrass State legislator added.
Churchill Downs will allow 18-year-olds to place bets, while other tracks will only allow those 21 and over.
Online sports betting in the state launches on 28 September, with the Kentucky Horseracing Commission having approved the first eight online sports betting operators and has granted them temporary licenses.
Kentucky, and Churchill Downs, will allow 18-year-olds to place bets, while other tracks will allow those 21 and over.
Markets in Kentucky include the major leagues like the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB while esports, XFL, Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, and X Games are also available.
Online sports betting in the state launches on 28 September, the Kentucky Horseracing Commision approving the first eight online sports betting operators and has granted them temporary licenses.
Should the likes of DraftKings Kentucky, BetMGM Kentucky, Circa Sports, and others be successful, the licenses will become permanent.