Published on: September 11, 2024, at 10:30 AM.
Last modified on: September 11, 2024, at 10:42 AM.
Caesars Entertainment revealed that the Caesars Sportsbook division is now managing the operation of 53 sports betting kiosks in Washington, DC that were previously operated by GambetDC.
GambetDC had previously been the only mobile sports betting app in the nation’s capital. However, after facing multiple controversies and poor performance, Intralot handed over the app’s operation to Flutter Entertainment’s FanDuel, which assumed control in April. FanDuel paid a $5 million conversion fee to the Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG) to take over from Intralot.
It was initially thought that FanDuel would manage the kiosks with the expectation of remaining the city’s sole mobile sports betting app. Nonetheless, the monopoly was short-lived as the Washington, DC city council included a provision in the fiscal 2025 budget sent to Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) to expand the number of gaming companies offering mobile betting in the city.
This move allowed FanDuel to consider terminating its contract with the OLG and paved the way for Caesars Sportsbook and BetMGM to introduce mobile sports betting in the city. Consequently, Caesars secured the kiosk business.
Caesars Well-Known Among DC Bettors
Although Caesars does not operate a physical casino in Washington, DC, bettors are familiar with the gaming company and its brand. Before launching mobile sports betting there in July, the company inaugurated a retail sportsbook at Capital One Arena in 2021 – the first sportsbook in a professional sports team’s home court or stadium in the United States.
Our self-service betting kiosks are a valuable addition to our sports betting offerings in DC,” stated Caesars Digital President Eric Hession. “Whether sports enthusiasts prefer a traditional ticket-in-hand betting experience or wish to deposit cash for their mobile app account, our kiosks enhance the premium sports betting experience we provide through a range of options and convenience that support numerous local small businesses.”
In addition to placing bets via kiosks, bettors can use the machines to deposit funds into their Caesars Sportsbook mobile accounts. Bets made through the kiosks also qualify for rewards credits in the Caesars Rewards program.
The kiosks are dispersed throughout the city and can be found in bars, taverns, restaurants, and official lottery retailers.
Caesars Branding Could Alleviate Kiosk Concerns
When the city decided to broaden its mobile sports betting market, retailers housing the kiosks raised concerns that the move would reduce the appeal of the devices, potentially impacting a key revenue stream.
In its press release, Caesars did not address that issue, but it is conceivable that the gaming company’s widely recognized brand and iconic logo will attract bettors to continue utilizing the kiosks.
The financial terms of the gaming company’s agreement with the OLG were not disclosed.