A potential collaboration between Betfred Sportsbook and Virginia’s USL Championship franchise may pave the way for the former’s entry into the state.
On Tuesday, the sports betting company revealed its collaboration with Loudoun United FC. Subject to approval from the Virginia Lottery, the agreement enables Betfred to claim one of the few available online sportsbook positions in the state.
Currently, Virginia boasts a total of 13 operational live sportsbooks. As per the Virginia code, the state technically limits the number of sportsbook permits to a maximum of 12.
However, Virginia has exceptions that permit a maximum of 19 sportsbooks in the state.
The sports franchise exception helps Betfred Sportsbook
The establishment of the United Soccer League can be traced back to 2011, and its matches are streamed on various ESPN platforms. Located in Leesburg, VA, near Washington DC, Segra Field serves as the home stadium for Loudoun United FC. Notably, LUFC maintains a direct affiliation with the DC United MLS franchise.
The location of the team holds significance as pro sports franchises in Virginia gain access to one of two sportsbook permits. Additionally, franchises based in DC are considered if a sufficient number of employees meet the income tax thresholds in Virginia.
FanDuel Sportsbook has obtained a Virginia license in partnership with the Washington Commanders. Excitingly, there are intentions to establish a physical FanDuel sportsbook lounge at FedEx Field.
Applicants who currently operate or plan to operate a Virginia casino have the opportunity to obtain up to five sportsbook licenses.
- The Hard Rock Casino and Resort in Bristol operates with the Hard Rock Virginia Sportsbook, while the Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort utilizes the BetRivers Virginia Sportsbook. The Caesars Virginia Casino Resort in Danville has established a partnership with the Caesars Sportsbook in Virginia. The HeadWaters Resort & Casino in Norfolk has not yet announced a sportsbook partner. The proposed One Resort + Casino in Richmond is awaiting voter approval in 2025 and may also incorporate a sportsbook brand. It is worth noting that the competing Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia bid in Petersburg could potentially secure that spot as well, in theory.
Betfred is Loudoun United FC’s official partner
Starting in 2025, Betfred is set to become the sponsor for Loudoun FC’s home and away kits, featuring their red-and-white colors. Bryan Bennett, the COO of Betfred USA Sports, expressed the company’s track record of fruitful partnerships with soccer clubs in the UK.
“We are thrilled to announce our inaugural partnership in the United States with Loudoun United. With their strong foundation established over the past four years, we are eager to embark on a long-term collaboration to expand the fanbase of Loudoun United and promote the growth of Betfred Sportsbook in Virginia in the years ahead.”
According to Doug Raftery, the Executive Business Officer of LUFC, the Betfred partnership is anticipated to further elevate the fan experience.
He expressed his anticipation of collaborating with Betfred to establish a remarkable atmosphere both on and off the field in the forthcoming seasons.
When to expect Betfred in VA
It is logical for LUFC to partner with Betfred Sportsbook due to their strong British connections. The company was established by Fred and Peter Done in 1967 and made its debut in the United States in 2019, originating from Warrington, UK. Betfred is currently available to customers in IA, PA, CO, LA, AZ, WA, and MD. Additionally, they have plans to expand their operations to the NV and OH markets.
According to spokesman John Hagerty, the Betfred launch in Virginia may still be a few months away as the VA Lottery window has already closed.
He recently informed PlayVirginia that the upcoming annual application period will commence in May 2025.
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