Kentucky’s retail sports betting handle reaches $4.5m in first two weeks
Governor Andy Beshear announced preliminary sports betting numbers two weeks after it launched in the state.
US.- Kentucky governor Andy Beshear has announced that preliminary numbers show the first two weeks of regulated retail sports betting generated a handle of $4.5m. Retail sports betting began on September 7, with mobile betting to launch on September 28. Over 60,000 mobile accounts are already pre-registered.
Beshear said: “This is a strong number that certainly reflects the excitement Kentuckians have for the opening of sports wagering. With college football and the NFL season underway, plus the launch of mobile wagering, we expect that number will grow significantly.
“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.”
Bet365, BetMGM, Barstool Sportsbook, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics have been licensed by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) to operate mobile betting in Kentucky and will launch their applications on opening day. Circa Sports Kentucky has been licensed and plans to launch a mobile application later in the year.
Last week, the Sports Wagering Advisory Council (SWAC) recommended additions to the sports wagering catalog. The additions are Formula One Racing, NRL (National Rugby League Australia), PFL (Professional Fighters League MMA), Bellator (MMA), Universal Tennis League.