It was anticipated, and now it’s official: Golden Nugget Sportsbook in Virginia has launched and is accepting wagers.
On Wednesday, October 13th, officials finally revealed the highly anticipated launch of the online sports betting app in Old Dominion.
GN has become the ninth sportsbook in Virginia, marking its debut after Barstool Sportsbook started accepting wagers on August 10.
Golden Nugget’s VA debut did not come as a surprise at all.
Golden Nugget debut long time coming
In January, Virginia witnessed the launch of four sportsbooks, with FanDuel being the first to enter the market, as sports betting officially went live in the state.
On Wednesday, Golden Nugget finally joined the mix after four more sportsbooks had already started accepting wagers.
Contrary to expectations, the Virginia Lottery granted permits to the company and two other books, including Barstool, on March 15. Among these, Bally’s was also issued a permit on the same day but is yet to launch in the commonwealth, making it the only Virginia sportsbook with a permit but no active operations.
| Sportsbook | Permit approval date | Launch date |
|---|---|---|
| FanDuel | 1/20/2021 | 1/21/2021 |
| DraftKings | 1/24/2021 | 1/24/2021 |
| BetMGM | 1/24/2021 | 1/27/2021 |
| BetRivers | 1/26/2021 | 1/27/2021 |
| Caesars (formerly William Hill) | 1/27/2021 | 2/2/2021 |
| WynnBET | 3/4/2021 | 3/11/2021 |
| Unibet | 4/21/2021 | 4/28/2021 |
| Barstool | 3/15/2021 | 8/10/2021 |
| Golden Nugget | 3/15/2021 | 10/13/2021 |
| Bally Bet | 3/15/2021 | 11/24/2021 |
| PointsBet | 11/22/2021 | 12/15/2021 |
| Hard Rock | 3/31/2022 | 3/31/2022 |
| Betway | 11/24/2021 | Q2 2022 |
| SI Sportsbook | 11/25/2021 | Q2 2022 |
GN has recently made its intentions clear regarding its involvement in Virginia, despite the delay. In our previous report, we highlighted how the company has committed to donating $1 million to Virginia’s five HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). Additionally, GN has pledged a percentage of their future revenue, amounting to a minimum of $500,000 annually indefinitely.
GN and online casino success
What caused Golden Nugget’s delayed debut in Virginia?
DraftKings’ recent acquisition of Golden Nugget Online Gaming (GNOG) could be considered as a potential explanation.
After the $1.6 billion deal, certain concerns arose in the form of questions. Specifically, one wondered if Golden Nugget would persist as an independent brand.
It seems to be true. Golden Nugget is primarily recognized as a popular choice among online casino players, particularly in New Jersey and Michigan, despite also offering sports-betting options. On the other hand, DraftKings has faced challenges in that particular area of its business.
Currently, Virginia legislation prohibits the operation of online casinos, which means that our company will be directing its efforts towards promoting and enhancing its sports betting offerings in the state.
In addition, Golden Nugget has separated its online division as part of the agreement with DraftKings. DraftKings has acquired GNOG, while Golden Nugget’s physical casinos have also entered into a sportsbook deal with DK.
GN had been competing for the Richmond casino project before reaching an agreement with DraftKings. However, officials ultimately chose the proposal put forth by Urban One and the Colonial Downs Group.
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