Bet365 Secures Sports Betting License in Illinois
Bet365 has officially landed in Illinois. The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) has granted the UK-based sportsbook a license, allowing it to operate both online and retail betting in partnership with Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort.
Illinois: A Booming Market
Illinois has quickly become a powerhouse in the sports betting world. By October 2024, nine sportsbooks operating in the state had handled nearly $11 billion in wagers for the year—a 23% increase compared to the same period in 2023. October alone saw a record-breaking $1.45 billion in bets.
bet365 has now become the 10th online sportsbook in Illinois, one of the most lucrative sports betting markets in the U.S.
Facing the Competition
Bet365’s arrival means it’ll go head-to-head with some of the biggest names in the industry, including:
- FanDuel
- DraftKings
- BetMGM
- Caesars
- BetRivers
- Fanatics
- ESPN Bet
The company will also have to navigate Illinois’ progressive tax structure on sports betting revenue, introduced in June 2024. The tax rates range from 20% to 40%, making Illinois one of the most expensive states for sportsbooks to operate—second only to New York’s 51% rate.
Building on U.S. Success
Illinois becomes the 12th state where bet365 will operate in the U.S., adding to its growing footprint in markets like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Arizona. Known for its dominance in Europe and Australia, bet365 has been steadily expanding its reach in the U.S., bringing its global expertise to a rapidly growing market.
The partnership with Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort is a strategic move, giving bet365 a physical presence in Illinois alongside its online platform. This dual approach will allow the company to connect with more bettors and establish itself in one of the most competitive gaming markets in the U.S.
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