Delaware Launches Mobile Sports Betting with BetRivers, Expanding Gaming Horizons

The state’s new vendor, Chicago-based Rush Street Interactive (RSI), which operates BetRivers, PlaySugarHouse, and RushBet, succeeded the previous vendor 888. RSI will operate online gambling in Delaware for an initial five-year term, with the option to extend for five more years.

RSI’s Expansion in the U.S.

RSI, a subsidiary of Rush Street Gaming, already had a presence in 15 U.S. states, including New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Notably, FanDuel and DraftKings did not bid for the Delaware contract. The soft launch of the BetRivers app was promoted on social media, and early indications show a successful start.

Richard Schwartz, CEO of RSI, commented on the launch: “We are thrilled to begin this historic and much-anticipated launch of the new online sportsbook and casino with the Delaware Lottery and bring our award-winning product to Delaware. With our extensive offering of gaming content, wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods, real-time cash-out approvals, and best-in-class customer service, Delaware customers are going to love the convenience of wagering on their favorite sports, slots, and table games from anywhere in the state.”

Delaware’s Pioneering Role in Sports Betting

Delaware was the first state outside of Nevada to offer single-game sports wagering after the fall of the Professional & Amateur Sports Protection Act (PAPSA) in 2018. However, it lagged in introducing mobile sports gambling. The state has been operating sportsbooks at Delaware Park, Dover Downs, and Harrington Raceway casinos for nearly five years.

The state’s unique operation under the state lottery, which aims to generate maximum income, and its smaller population compared to neighboring states, have been challenges in expanding to mobile betting. Yet, the growing popularity of mobile sports betting and demand from Delawareans influenced the state’s decision to embrace this new form of gambling.

BetRivers App Accessibility

The BetRivers app, available in the Apple and Google app stores, allows bettors to place bets online through Delaware’s three casinos – Delaware Park, Bally’s Dover, and Harrington Casino. The launch was timed perfectly for major sporting events like the Super Bowl and March Madness.

Before RSI’s takeover, Delaware’s online gambling generated approximately $13 million annually in gross gaming revenue, with a significant portion from online slots. RSI aims to increase these revenues through targeted marketing campaigns and believes Delaware has the potential to grow substantially in the gambling market.

Our Comment on the Development

Delaware’s introduction of mobile sports betting through BetRivers represents a significant shift in its gaming approach, catering to the evolving preferences of bettors. This move not only broadens the state’s gaming offerings but also positions it competitively in the rapidly growing online sports betting market in the U.S. RSI’s strategic approach and optimistic outlook suggest a promising future for Delaware’s gaming revenue and player engagement.