BetMGM Monday announced a market access agreement, in conjunction with Revolutionary Racing Kentucky, to provide its online and retail sports betting platform in the Bluegrass State. Kentucky joins 20 states, plus the District of Columbia, where BetMGM has market access.
“Kentucky has a rich history in sports and a passionate fan base,” said BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt in a statement. “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.”
BetMGM will offer online sports betting when Kentucky’s regulated market opens, pending licensure and regulatory approval. Sports betting in the commonwealth was legalized in June. According to the Lexington Herald-Leader, retail sports betting is expected to launch on September 7, 2023, and online sports betting is scheduled to start September 28.
BetMGM also plans to open a 5,200 square-foot retail BetMGM Sportsbook this fall with Revolutionary Racing Kentucky at Sandy’s Racing & Gaming, a $75 million gaming and entertainment facility in Ashland.
Construction of Kentucky’s first quarter horse racetrack and equestrian center will follow on 182 acres next to Sandy’s, with the first races in 2025.
Revolutionary Racing was granted a license by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission in July 2022. The company’s strategic partners are the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and Keeneland Association.
“We promised to bring a world-class facility to Ashland and wanted a world-class partner for online sports wagering across the Commonwealth and at our sportsbook lounge,” said Revolutionary Racing CEO Prentice Salter. “We’ve got that with BetMGM.”
