Maine’s legal sports betting market is now officially open for business as of November 3. Both Caesars and DraftKings are already live in the state, allowing consumers to start placing bets.
The Executive Director of the Maine Gambling Control Unit (GCU), Milt Champion, revealed the launch plans earlier this week. Just a few days later, the sports betting market is now live, with DraftKings and Caesars already operational. DraftKings has partnered with the Passamaquoddy tribe to launch online betting in Maine, while Caesars is going live in partnership with three Wabanaki Nations, including the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Mi’kmaq Nation, and Penobscot Nation.
Eric Hession, President of Caesars Digital, expressed excitement about the launch, stating, “Maine sports fans deserve an elevated sports wagering experience that matches the pedigree of sports fandom in New England. The launch of Caesars Sportsbook delivers on that pedigree.”
In addition to DraftKings and Caesars, Genius Sports has secured a temporary gaming license from the Maine Gambling Control Unit, expanding their reach in North America. Genius is the exclusive distributor of NFL official league data and claims to power more than 98% of the regulated North American sportsbook market.
The launch of the sports betting market in Maine comes 18 months after the activity was legalized in the state. Governor Janet Mills signed a bill allowing retail and online sports wagering last spring. However, internet sports wagering can only be operated by approved tribes in the state, as stated in LD 585. Tribes are allowed to apply for a license to operate online betting and can partner with one online operator each. Additionally, combined racetracks and off-track betting facilities have the opportunity to apply for land-based licenses for retail wagering.