Fanatics Sportsbook Launch Delayed
Fanatics Sportsbook, one of the highly-anticipated untethered sportsbook operators, is facing a delay in its launch. While earlier reports suggested that the brand would be among the six operators launching in early March, it seems that Fanatics is running behind schedule.
The Expected Launch and the Delay
Matt King, the CEO of betting and gaming at Fanatics, had informed the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) in January about the expected launch in early March. However, the MGC has set a specific target date of March 10th for all licensed sportsbooks, provided they meet the necessary requirements. Unfortunately, Fanatics has confirmed that it will not be ready for the proposed launch date.
It’s not just Fanatics facing this setback. Betway, another licensed entity in Massachusetts, has also experienced a delay due to a recent acquisition. Both Fanatics and Betway will not be able to meet the March 10th launch deadline.
Delayed Online Debut
While Fanatics opened its first retail location at FedEx Field in Maryland in January 2023, their online sportsbook product is yet to make its debut in any state. Despite being licensed for online operation in Maryland, Massachusetts, and Ohio, Fanatics has not launched its online platform in any of these states.
Michael Rubin, Fanatics CEO, has mentioned that rapid expansion is anticipated for the online sportsbook, with plans to make it available in 15 to 20 states by the end of 2023.
Sportsbooks to Launch by March 10th
Although the delay in Fanatics’ launch may disappoint some, there is good news for sports betting enthusiasts in Massachusetts. Several operators are running ahead of schedule and expected to launch by March 10th, just in time for the excitement of March Madness.
Retail Sportsbooks Already Open
Three retail sportsbooks located in casinos have been open since January 31st. These include Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park.
Online Sportsbook Operators to Launch
Eleven online sportsbook operators have received approval to launch on March 10th. This includes six untethered operators and five that are connected to casinos. Among the expected launches are Bally Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Betr, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet, and WynnBET.
Although Betway and Fanatics won’t be able to meet the launch deadline, there are still nine online operators that are likely to be active on March 10th in Massachusetts.
Future Retail Locations
In addition to the existing three retail locations, there are plans for a fourth retail sports betting location at Raynham Park, a horse racing simulcast location operated by Caesars Sportsbook Massachusetts. It is expected to open in 2023. Furthermore, Suffolk Downs, another simulcasting facility, is also anticipated to join the sports betting scene in Massachusetts.
With several licenses yet to be claimed in the state, it is likely that more operators will launch their sportsbooks in Massachusetts in the near future, providing an even greater variety of options for bettors.
Conclusion
While Fanatics Sportsbook and Betway face delays in their launches, Massachusetts sports betting enthusiasts can still look forward to a variety of online and retail operators that will be active by March 10th. The excitement of March Madness is within reach, and the state’s sports betting landscape is expected to continue expanding in the coming months.
FAQs
1. How long has Fanatics Sportsbook been planning its launch?
Fanatics Sportsbook has been planning its launch for some time now, but it is experiencing a delay in meeting the expected timeline.
2. Are there any retail sportsbooks currently operating in Massachusetts?
Yes, there are three retail sportsbooks open in Massachusetts, located within casinos: Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park.
3. Which online sportsbook operators are expected to be active in Massachusetts by March 10th?
Nine online operators have a high likelihood of being active on March 10th. These include Bally Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Betr, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet, and WynnBET.
4. How many states does Fanatics plan to expand its online sportsbook to by the end of 2023?
Fanatics aims to make its online sportsbook available in 15 to 20 states by the end of 2023.
5. Will there be additional retail sportsbook locations in Massachusetts in the future?
Yes, there are plans for a fourth retail sports betting location at Raynham Park, and Suffolk Downs may also join the fray with its own retail sportsbook in the near future.
