iGaming Weekly Recap (February 3–9, 2025): Super Bowl Betting to Hit $1.4 Billion

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has expressed cautious support for the legalization of online sports betting. While Abbott maintains a positive stance, a major obstacle remains—Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, a strong opponent of gambling expansion. Despite Patrick’s resistance, polls indicate widespread public support for legalization, which could pressure lawmakers to act. Legalization would require a constitutional amendment, needing approval from a majority in both legislative chambers before being put to a public referendum.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine wants to double the state’s sports betting tax to 40%, which would make it the second-highest in the country after New York. This would be Ohio’s second tax hike since legalization, following a previous increase from 10% to 20%. Operators oppose the proposal, fearing it will harm the industry and consumers.

Robinhood suspended its Super Bowl betting contracts after the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) intervened. The product, launched with Kalshi, faced quick regulatory scrutiny. Robinhood expressed disappointment but remains committed to expanding into regulated prediction markets. Despite the temporary halt, the company plans to work with the CFTC to create an improved platform.

Minnesota lawmakers introduced a new sports betting bill (SF 978) with key changes from past proposals. It includes a competitive platform selection process, strict advertising rules, and a progressive tax structure starting at 40% of net revenue. The bill grants exclusive mobile betting rights to tribal operators while enforcing strong consumer protections like deposit limits and self-exclusion. Unlike previous bills, it defines a wager’s location based on the bettor’s residence rather than where the bet is placed. The bill also caps the number of platform and sportsbook licenses at eleven.

Delta Air Lines and DraftKings have confirmed a partnership to offer interactive games to passengers during flights. The games, available to SkyMiles members aged 21 and over, are free-to-play and skill-based, with no real-money wagering involved. This collaboration aligns with Delta’s strategy to enhance in-flight entertainment and drive digital transformation. While real-money betting is currently off the table, both companies are considering potential expansion in that direction, depending on regulatory developments.

Super Bowl Bonus

Super Bowl LIX is finally here! Today, February 9, 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. As of this Weekly Recap’s preparation, the Chiefs are slight favorites with a -120 moneyline, while the Eagles sit at +102. Beyond the standard bets, sportsbooks are packed with fun prop bets, from the MVP winner and the coin toss to the color of the Gatorade shower.

According to the American Gaming Association, Americans will wager a record-breaking $1.39 billion on Super Bowl LIX. “No single event unites sports fans like the Super Bowl, and that excitement extends to sports betting, with this year’s record legal handle reflecting its widespread appeal. This figure underscores the positive impact of the legal market—from protecting consumers to generating tax revenue that benefits communities across the country—while enhancing the game experience for all,” said AGA’s CEO Bill Miller.

The Super Bowl is a truly unique event that also requires a responsible approach to sports betting. The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) highlights this concern, warning against excessive wagering on Super Bowl LIX. MGCB expects record-breaking betting volume to exceed $1.5 billion. The agency urges responsible gambling by recommending setting a budget, treating bets as entertainment rather than income, and using licensed sportsbooks.

From an industry perspective, one interesting aspect of this year’s Super Bowl is the growing popularity of platforms offering event-based contracts. As mentioned earlier, Robinhood took a cooperative approach with the CFTC and suspended its Super Bowl contracts. However, with platforms like Kalshi and Crypto.com in the mix, there are still plenty of options.

We’ll be back next week with another Weekly Recap, once there’s more to unpack about the Super Bowl LIX betting action. Enjoy the game, and remember to gamble responsibly!