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Kentucky Sees $4.5 Million in Wagers Ahead of Mobile Sports Betting Launch

Written by: Michael Savio

Published September 26, 2023

2 min read

Kentucky has been capturing headlines in the sports betting industry since September 1. They launched retail sports betting on September 7, expanded the bet catalog last week, and are now set to launch mobile betting on Thursday. However, their biggest headline came today when the Bluegrass State announced their retail sports betting handle has already surpassed $4.5 million

One big reason for the early success was Kentucky’s ability to launch retail betting in time for the beginning of the NFL season. Bettors flocked to the state’s nine brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. Churchill Downs owns and operates most of those locations, meaning they have been the biggest beneficiary of the industry’s success since the September 7 launch.

The impressive early returns have increased expectations for their upcoming online sports betting launch. Kentucky already has over 60,000 users signed up for online sportsbooks through pre-registration, and they expect even more this weekend.

"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," Governor Andy Beshear said of the new industry

Three more retail sportsbook locations are set to open in the next few months.

Seven Online Sportsbooks Set for Thursday’s Launch

Seven online sportsbooks are set to go live on Thursday, giving Kentucky bettors plenty of options to choose from. One notable absence is PENN Entertainment and its new ESPN Bet platform. While PENN has a license to operate in Kentucky, the new platform isn’t ready to launch.

The following sportsbooks will be available starting on Thursday, September 28:

Kentucky is expecting the industry to bring in $22 million annually once it launches.

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Michael Savio

Sports Betting Analyst

Expertise:

Gambling News

MLB

NCAAB

Online Sports Betting

Michael is an avid sports fan and a veteran bettor from Milwaukee. He learned the trade from his grandfather in Las Vegas as a kid and has turned that into a successful career. He cheers for all Wisconsin pro teams along with his Alma Mater Arizona State. He specializes in baseball betting, but has experience in football, basketball, and hockey as well. When he isn’t pouring over stats, he’s spending time with his two young children.