Fanatics Sportsbook Fined $15,000 for Unauthorized College Betting in Massachusetts

12.07.2024

Fanatics Sportsbook received a $15,000 fine from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) for offering a prohibited sports betting wager involving an in-state college team.

Incident Overview

The fine was recommended by the Investigations and Enforcement Bureau (IEB) and subsequently approved by the MGC in a unanimous 4-0 vote.

The violation occurred on December 13, 2023, when a $2 parlay bet involving five legs was placed.

One of the legs included a Boston College men’s basketball game, which is prohibited under Massachusetts state regulations for non-tournament college games featuring in-state teams.

Investigation and Resolution

Although Fanatics canceled the prohibited leg before the game commenced, the parlay still resulted in a loss. Following the incident, the matter was brought to the MGC’s attention during a public meeting on February 1.

The IEB conducted an investigation, consulted with Fanatics, and reviewed the measures implemented to prevent future occurrences.

Fanatics Sportsbook agreed to the $15,000 fine, acknowledging the violation and cooperating with the investigation.