BetMGM Sportsbook has entered the Washington, DC sports betting market as a result of an exclusive partnership with the Washington Nationals.
On Monday, a multi-year deal was announced by officials representing both the Major League Baseball team and the gaming/entertainment company.
The details of the financial arrangement were not revealed.
As part of the agreement, BetMGM officials will establish a sportsbook at Nationals Park, the home field of the 2019 World Series champions in Washington, DC.
In addition, similar to another DC-focused agreement that was recently revealed, BetMGM is set to introduce a mobile application. This app will allow sports enthusiasts to conveniently place bets within and near Nationals Park.
BetMGM beats rivals to DC market
While industry insiders may not find the BetMGM-Nationals deal surprising, eyebrows may be raised by the absence of heavyweight contenders like DraftKings Sportsbook or FanDuel Sportsbook in the agreement.
As mentioned before, the DC market lacks competitiveness, which is why Virginia sports betting enthusiasts, who will soon have legal options within their state, have not eagerly traveled north to place bets in the nation’s capital.
GambetDC, the official app and platform of the DC Office of Lottery and Gaming, exclusively allows online wagers in most areas of DC, with Intralot being the sole operator permitted by the DC Lottery.
On the other hand, the DC Lottery has recently given the green light for the introduction of a William Hill mobile sportsbook. Nonetheless, due to the dominance of GambetDC, the William Hill app is subject to certain restrictions. Primarily, individuals will be required to be physically present within the limited vicinity surrounding Capital One Arena in order to place bets.
William Hill had previously set up temporary betting windows at Capital One Arena, where prominent teams like the NHL’s Washington Capitals and NBA’s Washington Wizards play their home games. However, there are plans to renovate and enhance their physical presence at the arena. Despite this, there are still limitations on William Hill’s mobile betting capabilities.
Furthermore, similar to the partnership between the Nats and BetMGM, DC United and FanDuel have recently unveiled a collaboration. The two entities are joining forces to establish a physical sportsbook at Audi Field, the home stadium of the Major League Soccer team.
What BetMGM hopes to bring to DC
According to BetMGM officials, the focus of the partnership with the Nationals will be on sports betting. Additionally, the deal will involve fan-oriented campaigns and co-branding prospects.
According to Alan Gottlieb, the chief operating officer of Lerner Sports Group, fan engagement is the key focus.
“We are extremely excited to broaden our successful alliance with MGM Resorts by venturing into the world of sports betting. BetMGM, our official sports betting partner, will elevate the already exceptional fan experience in Washington, DC by offering cutting-edge entertainment products and services.”
“Our fans will now have the opportunity to experience the game in fresh and thrilling ways through the BetMGM mobile app. Additionally, Nationals fans and the DC community can come together at the BetMGM Sportsbook located at Nationals Park, creating an exceptional venue to celebrate their shared love for sports.”
The current Center Field Social space will be transformed into a physical sportsbook. You can find the lounge area conveniently situated near the Nationals Team Store.
Officials have stated that the sportsbook will resemble the luxurious MGM National Harbor Dugout Club sports box with an elegant aesthetic.
Officials have stated that although attendees won’t be able to access the physical sportsbook during games, they will have the convenience of using the BetMGM mobile app.
Matt Prevost, the chief revenue officer at BetMGM, asserts that
Our latest collaboration with the Nationals marks our most comprehensive partnership with a team, highlighting the various ways we can captivate fans both inside and outside the stadiums. We are thrilled to join forces and curate unparalleled experiences for Nationals fans and the wider DC metro community, on game days and beyond.
BetMGM is operational in 11 states at present. The company has stated its intention to venture into the Virginia market, subject to regulatory approval. The decision on BetMGM’s license application, which is currently under review by the Virginia Lottery, is expected to be revealed within the coming weeks.
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