Online Sports Betting Launch in Maine Goes Smoothly Over a Year After Legalization

Online Sports Betting Launch Goes Smoothly Over a Year After Legalization

Maine officially launched their online sports betting industry on Friday, November 3. The move came one year after the Pine Tree State officially legalized sports betting. Retail sports betting also became legal, but the state’s casinos and off-track betting locations have yet to open physical locations. They expect to have betting kiosks up as soon as they finish constructing the sportsbooks. 

While the state’s sports betting law allows for up to four sportsbooks, only two launched on Friday: Caesars and DraftKings. Caesars had been the sole operator to obtain a license leading up to the launch, but DraftKings gained on October 31, just days before the industry launched. The market’s small size had prevented many sportsbooks from passing on entering the state, but DraftKing's move may lead to other major operators changing course. 

“Building a relationship with the Passamaquoddy Tribe is a fantastic opportunity for DraftKings as we look to bring customers in the state of Maine safe and legal sports betting,” DraftKings’ CEO Jason Robin said of the deal. “We look forward to our continued collaboration with the Maine Gambling Control Unit as we become the official mobile sports betting provider of the Passamaquoddy Tribe and launch in our industry-leading 25th state.”

BetMGM has been making inroads in the state and could end up partnering with a few of the retail locations along with launching their online sportsbook. Fanatics, FanDuel, and ESPN Bet, have also been mentioned as possible applicants for the remaining two licenses. 

Genius Sports Awarded Temporary Sports Betting License

Amid the anticipated launch, there was news that Genius Sports was awarded a license in Maine. While they do not operate their own sportsbook, they are a digital partner that provides technological solutions and a live streaming tool. Their access to Maine means that online operators can partner with Genius.

“We are honored that the MGCU has awarded Genius Sports its temporary gaming license to enable sportsbooks to access our full suite of solutions, including our ground-breaking BetVision streaming tool,” Genius CEO Mark Locke said. “Powered by the highest quality official data, our products are proven to help sportsbooks drive trading profits and cost efficiencies while engaging players at every step.”