The digital sports betting landscape in Massachusetts underwent recent changes, leaving consumers awaiting new options. As the state’s sports betting scene continues to evolve, consumers faced a reduction in their digital offerings. Two platforms have recently ceased operations, but there are indications that the selection may soon expand again. Within the last month, Betr and WynnBET, two digital sports betting services, have discontinued their platforms, narrowing the range of choices for bettors. However, a new addition is on the horizon, with Bally’s Corporation setting its sights on a potential late second quarter launch for its sports betting app in the Bay State.
The presence of Bally’s in the regional gaming market is already substantial, as demonstrated by their monopoly in neighboring Rhode Island where they recently launched their igaming platform on March 5. This strategic move in Rhode Island was of particular interest to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) as Bally’s had previously stated it would focus on the Ocean State before escalating efforts in Massachusetts.
Bally’s, however, has a series of regulatory milestones to surmount before it can introduce its sports betting services in Massachusetts. The company will need to undergo equipment inspections and obtain the final nod of approval for its internal controls. While these preparatory stages are customary, there has been some level of communication delay between Bally’s and the MGC. Despite attempts to reach out following the Rhode Island launch, the MGC had not received a clear outline of Bally’s plans for Massachusetts, until a conversation took place last week when Bruce Band, the assistant director at the MGC, sought clarity on the company’s intentions.
This lack of direct communication seems to have struck a chord with the MGC members. Massachusetts Gaming Commissioner Eileen O’Brien emphasized the need to advance proceedings and “move it forward,” hinting at the possibility of ceasing any offers until Bally’s engages in a formal discussion with the commission. Brad Hill, another commissioner, echoed O’Brien’s sentiments, advocating for a firmer stance that obliges Bally’s to attend a meeting with them.
In the meantime, sports betting in Massachusetts continues to develop, particularly with regards to the types of sports that bettors can wager on. The recent merger of the XFL and USFL brought forth the United Football League (UFL) and substantially caught the attention of betting operators. Fanatics Sportsbook and FanDuel, two currently live platforms in the state, successfully proposed to have UFL betting added to the local bet menu – a change approved by the commission.
On a different note, the commission witnessed a significant transition as Chair Cathy Judd-Stein presided over her final meeting before retirement from public service, marking the end of a term that began in January 2019. During her tenure, Judd-Stein has been instrumental in fostering policies for a safe and sustainable gaming environment in Massachusetts. Her departure follows a tenure characterized by dedication to public service and advancing public and private interest intersection.
While a definitive date for Bally’s Massachusetts launch remains uncertain, the commission’s latest discussions indicate an eagerness to clarify and expedite Bally’s entry into the market. Given Bally’s existing presence and recent igaming success in Rhode Island, the brand’s potential impact on the Massachusetts sports betting sector could be substantial. Bettors in the Bay State can only wait in anticipation as the remaining regulatory steps unfold, hoping that by late June, they will indeed have another sports betting platform at their disposal.
