Exclusive: New Jersey operators granted permission to take first esports bets
DGE wrote to bookmakers yesterday giving permission for wagers on the League of Legends World Championship finals this weekend
New Jersey operators have been granted permission to take bets on esports for the first time, EGR can reveal.
In an email sent to locally-licensed operators last night, the Division of Gaming Enforcement authorized books to take bets on the League of Legends World Championship finals.
The permission is currently a one-off, although it is thought it could be extended should it prove successful.
The DGE letter stated: “The Division has received multiple requests to allow wagering on the League of Legends World Championship finals.
“After reviewing the structure and governing body of the event, as well as the relevant information on integrity issues and the age of the competitors, the Division has determined that wagering on this event is permissible, subject to certain conditions.”
The conditions include no bets during gameplay and no bets on individual player props.
Bets are also limited to $1,000 or to win $1,000, whichever is lower.
One New Jersey source described the potential roll-out of esports betting as a game-changer, with the ability to attract a new demographic to betting, as well as take share from offshore operators which are currently offering these bets.
The 2019 League of Legends Worlds finals will take place on November 10.