News of the Bluegrass state's legislative opening toward sports betting has raised doubts and uncertainties about online gambling in Kentucky and its regulation, but also hopes and excitement for the future of the sports entertainment business in the state.
Kentucky has granted temporary licenses to online sportsbooks to operate legally in its territory, and the official launch is scheduled for September 28; however, this doesn’t mean that now KY’s gambling policy allows just any kind of wagering. In this article we will shed light on Kentucky’s online gambling scene and some of the top operators ready to join in.
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21+ and present in KY. Bonus issued in non-withdrawable bonus bets that expires 7 days after FanDuel accepts its first real money sports wager in KY ("Go Live Date"). Unique user identity verification required. Offer ends on the Go Live Date. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Help is available 24 hours a day, every day. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for assistance.
As we discussed also in our Kentucky’s sport betting article, the rumors about sports betting legalization are true; Kentucky has already granted temporary licenses to several sports betting operators. While offline sportsbooks welcomed customers as early as September 7, online sports betting platforms will be legal and available to all the residents who meet the minimum age for gambling in KY starting September 28.
However, this does not imply indiscriminate legalization of any kind of gambling. Although hopes and speculation about future greater legislative openness proliferate, these are only hypotheses, and as of today casino gambling remains forbidden across the state.
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With all the anticipation surrounding the event, Kentucky bettors are already working on comparing the different options, to get a comprehensive view of each operator's offering. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a guide to some of the best competitors in the game; now it's up to you to assess which option is most in line with your interests.
DraftKings
DraftKings: Pros & Cons
Multiple betting options
Native Android and iOS apps
Several payment methods
Less competitive odds
Although online casino gambling is still prohibited in Kentucky, legalization of sports betting in the state is imminent. DraftKings, a leading operator in the online sportsbooks industry, is intent on taking advantage of this opportunity, offering a wide range of features that cater to all sports bettors in KY.
A plethora of features
If you are looking for real-time engagement, the live betting section is one of the standout features of DraftKings. Complemented by a live streaming feature, it enables bettors to place bets as the game progresses, and even offers the option to create or join “pools”, group contests with cash prizes for the winners.
The early cash-out, available on several markets, is another DraftKings’ feature we are sure Kentucky sports gamblers will love. Furthermore, DraftKings’ mobile application is compatible with both iOS and Android, ensuring users a seamless and immersive betting experience.
VIP program
In terms of rewards, it hasn’t been disclosed yet whether DraftKings will offer a specific welcome bonus for Kentucky. However, its existing sign-up offer allows new subscribers to wager at least $5 and receive up to $200 in bonus bets. For existing customers, DraftKings offers the "Dynasty rewards", a tiered VIP program that provides several perks to members, including exclusive customer offers and access to game tickets and private events.
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DraftKings Highlights
Great range of different sports leagues
Optimal in-play betting features
Easy to use app with fast payouts
BetMGM
BetMGM: Pros & Cons
Same-game parlays
Mobile app
Live betting
No phone support
BetMGM has already positioned itself as a globally established sportsbook operator, and we have no doubt it won't be long before it makes a name for itself in Kentucky as well. Even though BetMGM offerings in other states are varied, ranging from casino games to sports betting, we will focus on the latter, as casino gambling in Kentucky is still not allowed.
Attractive welcome bonus
Diving into what makes BetMGM stand out, we have to mention its captivating welcome bonus. Although the details for Kentucky are not public yet, the BetMGM sign up offer already in place in other states allows new members to make a minimum deposit of $10 and get the chance to receive an impressive $1500 back in bonus bets if their initial wager is not successful. Let’s hope this is on the radar for Kentucky too.
Live betting options
BetMGM also caters to in-play betting enthusiasts, offering live betting options for a range of local and international sporting events; live streaming is available, covering not only classic sports such as tennis, but also less common options like table tennis and snooker. This feature allows bettors to place bets in real time as the matches progress, adding an extra layer of excitement and engagement to the gambling experience.
The scenario of the legal introduction of sports gambling opens up excellent opportunities for Kentucky gamblers, and with such a comprehensive offer, BetMGM is poised to become a fan favorite, providing a seamless and reliable platform for sports betting enthusiasts throughout the state.
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BetMGM Highlights
Great moneyline odds
Superior betting markets
Vast selection of betting options
FanDuel
FanDuel: Pros & Cons
Multiple promotions
Available in many states
User-friendly interface
Not many withdrawal options
As sports betting will become officially legal in a few days, opening up exciting possibilities for Kentucky gamblers, FanDuel is ready to enter the chat.
Extensive betting options
FanDuel's sportsbook section boasts an extensive range of betting options, catering to fanatics of all kinds of sports, from popular modern sports, through fantasy sports, to old-fashioned horse racing. In addition, live betting and the option for live streaming further add to the excitement and engagement of the platform.
FanDuel also boasts a mobile app that is not only available for both Android and iOS, but also offered in the version “sportsbook” and “fantasy”, allowing you to choose the option that best aligns with your interests.
Kentucky special offer
Leading up to the official launch, FanDuel has already tailored a special pre-launch signup offer exclusively for Kentucky residents. By registering between 28 August and 28 September, bettors have the opportunity to receive $100 in free bets and a coupon code for a $100 discount on NFL Sunday Tickets, regardless of their first bet's outcome.
Overall, with the user-friendly interface, excellent promotional offers, and widespread availability across states, FanDuel stands out as a top sportsbook contender in Kentucky's online gambling scene.
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FanDuel Highlights
User-friendly mobile app & website
Low cost spreads
Highly competitive odds
Fanatics
Fanatics: Pros & Cons
Early cash-out
FanCash loyalty program
Withdrawal tracking
Few banking options
Established in 2021, Fanatics is a relatively new player on the online sports betting scene, and yet is already ranking among the top operators ready to step into KY online sports gambling market.
Withdrawal transparency
Among the highlights of this operator we must mention its fast and smooth signup process, its user-friendly interface, designed to guarantee an easy-going betting experience, and its transparent withdrawals system.
The last of these is a real selling point for Fanatics, as the platform makes available a convenient tracking tool that allows users to monitor their funds step by step, from the moment the withdrawal request is sent to the moment the cash is credited to their bank account.
Fancash
Another Fanatics’ standout feature is its virtual currency "FanCash." By opting in, bettors have the chance to get an additional return from each one of their qualifying bets, in the form of FanCash tokens. Although FanCash doesn’t hold any monetary value, it can be seen as “points” that users can redeem for bonus bets.
Pre-launch promotion for Kentucky
All in all, Fanatics features all the sportsbook must-haves, including dedicated Android and iOS mobile apps and options for live streaming and in-play betting. But the real good news for Kentucky bettors is that Fanatics presents an appealing pre-registration offer for residents who are eager to jump into the action.
In fact, by pre-registering on the Fanatics platform, new subscribers have a chance to get a jersey valued up to $150, after placing a bet of only $50. If we add this offering to all of Fanatics' other selling points, we can safely say that this operator is well equipped to fill the gap in Kentucky's emerging sports gambling market.
Caesars
Caesars: Pros & Cons
In-play betting options
Good selection of bonuses
Microbetting markets
High first deposit
Caesars is another well known sportsbook operator that we believe will play a significant role in KY gambling. While its casino games section may not be available in the state due to local regulations, Caesars boasts a comprehensive sports betting platform.
Kentucky early birds offer
Waiting for the official launch scheduled on September 28, Caesars offer a captivating pre-launch offer for early birds: all the new subscribers who will register and make a deposit of at least $20 will receive $25 in bonus bets when betting goes live, plus an additional $25 bonus bet each Monday for the following three weeks, for a total of $100 in bonus bets!
A fresh and varied betting experience
Additionally, if you are looking for an ever-changing betting experience, Caesars’ microbetting markets let you place a bet on specific in-game actions, keeping your wagering fresh and flexible. Caesars also offers many sought-after sportsbook features, such as early cash-out, live betting, and streaming options, to further enhance the excitement and variety of betting opportunities.
As the legalization of sports betting brings a fresh and legal alternative for entertainment, Caesars aims to establish itself as a leading operator in the Kentucky online gambling market, leveraging its solid reputation and innovative offerings to provide an exceptional sports betting experience to bettors across the state.
4.6/5
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Caesars Highlights
User-friendly betting app
Amazing live betting experience
Reliable customer support
Bet365
Bet365: Pros & Cons
Bet boosts
Several sports markets
Reputable brand
Website interface
Last but not least, Bet365 is another reputable brand that will soon be available in the newly legalized KY gambling scene.
Bet Boost & live streaming
While Bet365 does offer a casino section, this is not accessible for Kentucky residents, since only sports gambling has been legalized in the state. However, Bet365’s sportsbook offers all the entertainment you might hope for.
In addition to live betting and cash-out options, Bet365 boasts a Bet Boost feature, offering you a bigger price on selected markets in several sports. Also, their live streaming service is accessible from both browser and app, providing you with a seamless experience wherever you are.
Bet365's betting market covers a wide array of options, ranging from hockey to MMA to Esports, without neglecting popular sports such as soccer or football. Unsurprisingly, it’s football that’s the focus of the pre-launch offer.
Bet365 welcomes new Kentucky customers who register before September 28 with the opportunity to get $10 for every touchdown scored in an NFL game on that day, up to a maximum payout of $50.
One area for improvement could be the website interface, as some users may find it slightly less intuitive than desired. Nevertheless, with its reputable brand and attractive betting options, Bet365 is positioned to be a prominent player in Kentucky's emerging gambling scene.
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Bet365 Highlights
Massive range of sports betting markets
Quick withdrawals
Smooth app to navigate
Bet $1 and Get $365in Bonus Bets at bet365. Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler 21+
Conclusion - looking forward to the future of sports betting
The recent legislative developments surrounding sports betting have sparked both doubts and excitement about online gambling in Kentucky. Although casino gambling remains prohibited, the granting of temporary licenses to sportsbook platforms marks an important shift in KY’s gambling regulation.
Overall, Kentucky has taken a major step forward with the introduction of legal sports betting; now it remains to be seen when and how the gambling scene will evolve in the future.
Our favorite sports betting bonuses for September 2023
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21+ and physically present in VA only. Terms & Conditions apply. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call, text or chat, VA Council on Problem Gambling on their confidential and toll free helpline at: 1-888-532-3500.
Online gambling Kentucky FAQs
🔐Is online sports gambling legal in Kentucky?
Online sports betting platforms will be officially legal and accessible to KY residents from September 28, as the state has granted temporary licenses to several sports betting operators. For more details, feel free to check out our full article.
👀Is gambling legal in KY?
While casino gambling remains banned, online sports betting will be legal starting from September 28. If you would like to find out more, take a look at our comprehensive review on this topic.
❓Which sportsbook operators will be available in Kentucky?
Several renowned sportsbook operators are about to enter the Kentucky market. Some of the prominent names include DraftKings, BetMGM, FanDuel, Fanatics, Caesars, and Bet365, but for a detailed overview of each operator's offerings, you can refer to our comprehensive reviews in the article.
Bet $1 and Get $365in Bonus Bets at bet365. Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler 21+
21+ and physically present in VA only. Terms & Conditions apply. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call, text or chat, VA Council on Problem Gambling on their confidential and toll free helpline at: 1-888-532-3500.
Players must be 21 years of age or older or reach the minimum age for gambling in their respective state and located in jurisdictions where online gambling is legal. Please play responsibly. Bet with your head, not over it. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, and wants help, call or visit: (a) the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey at 1-800-Gambler or www.800gambler.org; or (b) Gamblers Anonymous at 855-2-CALL-GA or www.gamblersanonymous.org.
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