Nearly seven months after Ontario online sportsbooks were launched, retail sports betting is coming to “select” casinos in the province.
That’s the word today in a press release from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. In the release, Duncan Hannay, president and CEO of OLG, said:
“We are proud to have worked closely with the gaming industry and our partners in the Ontario government on this next phase of growth in Ontario’s gaming market. Sportsbooks in casinos will offer a diverse and integrated entertainment experience for players, give our service providers a stake in the sports gaming market, and bring more jobs and economic benefits to host communities.”
As to which casinos will choose to open sportsbooks, we already have some clues. Both Fallsview and Caesars Windsor have indicated intentions to open retail sportsbooks. It is expected some of the larger Great Canadian Entertainment casinos in the province will also offer retail sports betting.
Canadian Gaming Association applauds move
In the OLG’s release, Paul Burns, president and CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, said:
“I’d like to congratulate OLG for partnering with Ontario’s gaming operators to bring sportsbooks to casinos. This ongoing collaboration will result in new and expanded options for sports betting – including some first-of-their-kind sportsbooks in Canada – which will attract more people to visit Ontario’s casinos and encourage continued growth across the industry.”
Proceeds to be reinvested in provincial priorities
Like all OLG products, the proceeds that OLG generates through casino sportsbooks will be reinvested into provincial priorities to improve the quality of life for all Ontarians. For more information about how OLG gives back, visit OLG.ca.
OLG prioritizes player health and works to prevent and mitigate harm from problem gambling as we deliver all our products and services. OLG’s responsible gambling program, PlaySmart, will be incorporated into all casino-based sportsbook offerings. PlaySmart provides players access to award-winning tools and supports to help them make informed decisions and create healthy play habits.
