Kentucky Approves Temporary Licenses For Seven Online Sportsbooks

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) met today and voted on temporary licenses for both online and retail sportsbooks in Kentucky. Commission members approved all applicants, granting seven online and retail operators temporary licenses. These temporary licenses will allow operators to launch retail and online betting beginning Sept. 7 and Sept. 28, respectively.

Kentucky Sports Betting Incoming

During the meeting, commissioners reviewed every sports betting application presented. The KHRC approved applicants unanimously. Each approved operator will gain a permanent license following the meeting of certain criteria.

Approved Online Sportsbooks In Kentucky

• Bet365
• BetMGM
• Caesars Sportsbook
• Circa
• DraftKings Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook
• PENN Sports Interactive (ESPN BET)

Approved Retail Sportsbooks In Kentucky

• Churchill Downs, Louisville
• Cumberland Run, coming soon to Corbin
• Ellis Park, Henderson
• Oak Grove Gaming and Racing, Oak Grove
• Sandy’s Gaming and Racing, coming soon to Ashland
• The Red Mile, Lexington
• Turfway Park, Florence

In order to launch online sports betting in Kentucky, each operator must partner with a local Kentucky racetrack. Several of the best sports betting sites have already announced partnerships with local operators, gaining market access in the process.

Sportsbook Partnerships Already Taking Shape In Kentucky

Ahead of today’s meeting, DraftKings announced a partnership with Corbin Racing to gain market access. That marks the fourth operator to announce a deal with a local racetrack in the Blue Grass State. DraftKings also plans to launch a retail sportsbook alongside Corbin Racing.

“Together with the Corbin properties, we’re excited to bring our premier sports betting experience to yet another state and its sports fans,” said Matt Kalish, president of DraftKings North America. “We want to thank the Kentucky General Assembly for passing legislation and Governor Andy Beshear for his support of sports wagering as we look forward to launching our sportsbook product during a busy football season, pending licensure and regulatory approvals.”

A few weeks prior, BetMGM announced its deal with Revolutionary Racing. Like the DK partnership, operators in BetMGM gained market access through this deal. A $75 million gaming and entertainment center will be built as a part of this partnership.

“Kentucky has a rich history in sports and a passionate fan base. Revolutionary Racing is an ideal partner, enabling us to deliver an entertaining and responsible gaming experience, while investing in the state through job creation and tax revenue,” said Adam Greenblatt, BetMGM CEO.

FanDuel partnered with Churchill Downs to gain market access. And Caesars Sportsbook partnered with Keeneland and Red Mile.

Regulations allow local racetracks to host up to three online sports betting skins. The racetracks that already have partnerships can still partner with other sportsbooks down the line. A total of 30 sports betting licenses are available in Kentucky.