PointsBet makes Maryland retail sportsbook debut

PointsBet has taken its first retail sportsbook bets in Maryland, expanding into its 12th US sportsbook market.

The Australia-headquartered operator agreed an online and retail market-access partnership with Riverboat on the Potomac in June 2021, a licensed satellite simulcast facility for horseracing and minority-owned small business located in Charles County, Maryland.

PointsBet sportsbooks now operate in New Jersey, Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Colorado, Michigan, West Virginia, Virginia, New York, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and now Maryland.

PointsBet USA CEO Johnny Aitken was bullish about the firm’s prospects in the state following the launch.

“We are thrilled to be live in Maryland ahead of the commencement of the NFL season,” he explained.

“The first bet was taken on the Buffalo Bills, and we look forward to showcasing our product to the passionate, sports-loving community of Maryland,” Aitken added.

PointsBet has confirmed the anticipated launch of its sportsbook online in Maryland in early Q3 FY23.

Retail sports betting began in Maryland in December 2021, however a proposed online sportsbook debut for the state has been stalled due to regulatory delays, meaning the state has missed out on potentially lucrative NFL revenue.

Earlier this week, representatives of the Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) opened the process for the licensing of both retail and mobile sports betting applications.

Under the process, operators looking to obtain mobile and Class B facility (retail) sports wagering licenses have 45 days to submit their applications to SWARC. The deadline for applications is October 21.

The launch is PointsBet’s second in as many weeks, with the firm soft launching in Kansas following receipt of a temporary sportsbook license from the Kansas Lottery on September 1.

The state launched in a full capacity beginning with the new NFL season on September 8.