BetMGM strikes Baltimore Ravens deal as Maryland legalizes sports betting
Entain and MGM Resorts JV becomes official gaming partner of NFL franchise ahead of state’s June sports betting launch
BetMGM has capitalised on the legalization of sports betting in Maryland by signing a multi-year marketing partnership with the Baltimore Ravens.
On Tuesday, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed a bill into law to bring regulated sports betting to the Old Line State from June 1 across its six land-based casinos as well as online.
Maryland, which is home to six million people, will make available up to 60 licenses for online betting, although the number that apply is likely to be far fewer, while the tax rate is set at 15% for both retail and mobile.
The state approved sports betting by a two-to-one margin in a referendum last November and looks set to be the 22nd state plus the District of Columbia with sports betting up and running.
BetMGM has since become the Ravens’ first official gaming partner and will collaborate with the franchise on co-branded content for fans and sports bettors.
BetMGM branded signage will be present at the team’s M&T Bank Stadium, while the combination will also extend to digital media and integrated social media content.
The operator has also gained access to a private hospitality suite via the partnership, while the BetMGM mobile app will feature Ravens specific promotions and marketing campaigns.
Ravens chief sales officer Kevin Rochlitz said: “When we began the process of carefully identifying sports betting and digital gaming partners, one of our top priorities was finding unique ways for Ravens fans to further engage with the team.
“We are excited to partner with BetMGM and look forward to the specialised entertainment experience the company will provide for our fans.”
BetMGM chief revenue officer Matt Prevost commented: “The Ravens are an incredible organisation with a rich history and we’re proud to have BetMGM as the team’s first official partner in the gaming space.
“We look forward to offering Ravens fans new ways to engage with their favourite football team on our market-leading platforms,” he added.