In a significant development for Kentucky’s gambling landscape, the state legislature passed a historic bill in March 2023 to legalize land-based sports betting. This landmark decision represents a major shift, particularly considering Kentucky’s reputation for its vibrant horse racing industry.
The legislation permits all nine racetracks, notably the iconic Churchill Downs and Keeneland, to acquire licenses for operating brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. As a result, Kentucky’s avid sports enthusiasts can look forward to a new era of on-site sports wagering experiences.
Set to debut in late 2023, these upcoming betting locations will be land-based sportsbooks that are expected to offer a diverse array of betting opportunities, transforming the way individuals engage with sports within the state.
This article provides a brief insight into Kentucky’s current legal sports betting scenario, spotlighting the upcoming introduction of land-based betting at the state’s renowned racetracks and the associated challenges.
This article offers an overview of the most popular land-based sportsbooks in Kentucky. From renowned racetracks to upcoming gaming establishments, we’ll provide insights into the destinations where sports enthusiasts can engage with sports betting. Some of these venues are anticipated to open in the fall of 2023, adding to the array of options for those looking to enjoy sports wagering experiences in the state.
Phone: Not available
Address: 10699 U.S. 60 Ashland, Kentucky 41102
Anticipate the arrival of the BetMGM Sportsbook at Sandy’s Racing & Gaming, projected to open its doors in late 2023. In partnership with BetMGM Sportsbook, this new addition will provide a dynamic offering for those interested in sports wagering.
BetMGM Sportsbook, established in 2018 and co-founded by Adam Greenblatt, operates from its headquarters on Hudson Street in Jersey City.
BetMGM Sportsbook covers a wide array of sports for betting, encompassing football, soccer, hockey, tennis, basketball, boxing/MMA, virtual racing, baseball, auto racing, and horse racing. This selection reflects both Kentucky sportsbooks and the sports betting preferences in the state.
Additionally, BetMGM Sportsbook provides various bet types to suit diverse preferences, including moneyline, NFL, Head-to-Head, futures, parlay, specials, spreads, and more.
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Sandy’s Racing & Gaming in Kentucky aims to offer a distinct experience that sets it apart. Combining the excitement of horse races, gaming, slots, fine dining, and beverages, it’s a destination for both locals and visitors. With live music, a lively sportsbook, and horse races, the BetMGM sportsbook at Sandy’s promises an inviting atmosphere.
Phone: +1 502-636-4400
Address: 700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208, USA
FanDuel Group, an American gambling company that initially specialized in daily fantasy sports, has undergone a significant transformation into a comprehensive betting and gaming provider. Founded on July 21, 2009, in Edinburgh, Scotland, the company gradually broadened its scope to encompass sportsbooks, daily fantasy sports, horse racing, and online casino services.
In May 2018, FanDuel merged with Paddy Power Betfair (now Flutter Entertainment) to form FanDuel Group, aiming to capitalize on the growing sports betting market in the United States. Today, FanDuel Group operates sportsbooks in several states and has established itself as a significant player in the American gambling industry.
FanDuel Sportsbook provides an extensive selection of sports to wager on, encompassing sports like baseball, boxing, cricket, cycling, darts, basketball, football, golf, ice Hockey, MMA, motorsport, rugby, snooker, ATP and WTA tennis, and more.
Within these sports, a variety of bet types are available, including spread, moneyline, totals, Asian handicap, specials, head to head, golf hole scores, and others, ensuring a diverse range of options to cater to different betting preferences.
FanDuel at Churchill Downs offers a variety of amenities and experiences beyond betting and racing. The iconic racetrack is home to a range of entertainment options, including dining and hospitality services, live music events, and special events such as the famous Kentucky Derby. Visitors can enjoy fine dining and casual eateries, along with bars and lounges that offer a wide selection of beverages.
Additionally, FanDuel at Churchill Downs often hosts concerts, festivals, and other entertainment events, providing a well-rounded entertainment experience for guests beyond the thrill of horse racing and betting.
Phone: +1 859-255-0752
Address: 1200 Red Mile Rd, Lexington, KY 40504, USA
Caesars Sportsbook, a division of Caesars Entertainment, Inc., is a prominent American hotel and casino company headquartered in Reno, Nevada. Originating from the Eldorado Hotel in 1973, the company now manages over 50 properties nationwide.
With strategic acquisitions and rebranding as Caesars Entertainment in 2020, the company expanded into sports betting through the acquisition of William Hill in 2021, leading to the introduction of Caesars Sportsbook. The company also offers mobile gambling options and has formed partnerships, including becoming the official sportsbook of the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers.
Caesars Sportsbook provides an extensive selection of sports for betting, encompassing football, soccer, hockey, basketball, boxing/MMA, virtual racing, baseball, auto racing, and horse racing.
The platform also offers a variety of bet types, including money line, NFL run line, total runs, futures, parlay, MLB specials, and spreads, catering to diverse preferences and enhancing the excitement of sports wagering.
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The Red Mile Racetrack in Lexington, Kentucky, is more than just a horse racing venue – it’s a hub of entertainment and amenities. Set against a one-mile red clay track, the racetrack features a two-story clubhouse, a round barn, and a park, offering picturesque settings for weddings, parties, and events.
As a host to the Railbird Music Festival, it showcased 32 acts over two days, drawing in around 40,000 attendees each day. With its rich history and diverse offerings, The Red Mile Racetrack provides a unique blend of entertainment beyond the races.
As the landscape of sports betting continues to evolve, Kentucky finds itself on the brink of a significant change. With the legalization of sports betting, the state is witnessing a surge of interest from various prominent sportsbook operators.
Among the names in the spotlight are BetMGM Sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook, Bet365 Sportsbook, ESPN BET, and Circa Sportsbook.
While some partnerships have been confirmed, others remain in the realm of possibilities, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in Kentucky’s sports and gaming scene.
| Sportsbook | Partner |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | Sandy’s Racing – Application filed |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Keeneland, Red Mile – Application filed |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | Churchill Downs – Application filed |
| Sportsbook | Partner |
| DraftKings Sportsbook | Not confirmed – Application filed |
| Bet365 Sportsbook | Not confirmed – Application filed |
| ESPN BET | Not confirmed – Application filed |
| Circa Sportsbook | Not confirmed – Application filed |
Kentucky’s rich horse racing history, tracing its roots back to the 18th century, is on the brink of a new chapter with the advent of sports betting in the state. Renowned for its thoroughbred breeding and prestigious events like the Kentucky Derby, the state’s equestrian heritage is embracing a contemporary shift.
Anchored by iconic venues such as Churchill Downs, Keeneland, and The Red Mile, Kentucky’s horse racing legacy converges with the dynamic realm of Kentucky sports betting.
This convergence leads to exciting partnerships with key players in the sports betting industry, crafting a unique harmony that promises a future where tradition harmonizes with innovation—both on the racetracks and within the realm of Kentucky sportsbooks. Here’s a compiled list of race tracks poised to potentially host KY sportsbooks in the foreseeable future:
Let’s take a look at Casino Resorts with sports betting in Kentucky. As the state embraces legal sports wagering, several prominent establishments are either in the process of opening or already catering to enthusiasts. Notably, here are some casino resorts that stand as beacons of entertainment and opportunity:
With these ventures leading the way, it’s only natural to anticipate an increasing array of Kentucky sportsbooks becoming available in the near future, offering a fusion of gaming and the exhilaration of sports betting.
If you can’t wait to enjoy a fun gambling experience, consider exploring the Kentucky online casinos for a delightful time in the world of casinos.
Kentucky offers a variety of cruises and boat tours for exploring its waterways. From the Cincinnati Ohio River Cruise with a buffet dinner to the Sunset Sightseeing Cruise along the Ohio River, you can enjoy the region’s natural beauty in a unique way.
Here are some notable riverboats in Kentucky:
| Cruise name | Departing from |
| Cincinnati Ohio River Cruise | Cincinnati, OH |
| Sunset Sightseeing Cruise | Along the Ohio River |
| Cincinnati Riverboat Cruise | Cincinnati, OH |
| Historic Sightseeing Cruise | Cincinnati, OH |
Kentucky land-based sportsbooks provide a diverse array of sports for wagering enthusiasts. Whether it’s the excitement of major leagues like MLB and NFL or the thrill of college sports with NCAAF, the options are extensive.
Golf enthusiasts can place bets on the PGA Tour, while soccer fans have access to leagues like EPL and international tournaments such as the WWC. Basketball, tennis, racing, and a host of other sports are also on the betting menu. Here’s a comprehensive list of sports available for betting at B&M sportsbooks in Kentucky:
Kentucky, like many other locations, hosts a variety of sports that create chances for engaging in betting.
In this environment, you’ll find a collection of common bet types, each offering a unique way to connect with your favorite sports. Remember that the availability of these options can be shaped by local regulations and the platforms you decide to use.
Kentucky’s sports landscape encompasses a variety of professional and college teams, each contributing to the state’s vibrant athletic culture. While Kentucky is known for its basketball heritage, it also boasts other competitive sports teams. Here’s a glimpse of some prominent teams in the state:
| Team | Sport | League |
| Louisville City FC | Soccer | USL Championship |
| Racing Louisville FC | Soccer | NWSL |
| Kentucky Wildcats | Basketball | NCAA (College) |
| Louisville Cardinals | Basketball | NCAA (College) |
| Western Kentucky Hilltoppers | Basketball | NCAA (College) |
| Louisville Bats Baseball | Baseball | (AAA) |
| Bowling Green Hot Rods | Baseball | South Atlantic League (High-A) |
| Lexington Legends | Baseball | Atlantic League (MiLB) |
Please note that Kentucky does not have any professional teams in major North American sports leagues outside of soccer and women’s soccer (NWSL).
Within the context of Kentucky’s landscape, the Southern Cherokee Nation of Kentucky and the Ridgetop Shawnee Tribe of Indians choose to abstain from gambling activities, primarily directing their focus towards non-profit endeavors.These tribes contribute to the state’s cultural diversity and heritage preservation, adding unique threads to the rich tapestry of traditions in the region.
With a substantial presence in Kentucky, the Southern Cherokee Nation honors its heritage through cultural initiatives. Although they do not partake in gambling, they blend tradition with modern entertainment, navigating intricate US gambling laws by state. Their commitment to preserving ancestral roots while embracing contemporary engagement significantly enriches Kentucky’s cultural fabric.
The Ridgetop Shawnee Tribe maintains a strong connection to their historical lands and heritage in Kentucky. While they abstain from gambling activities, their engagement in non-profit initiatives showcases their dedication to preserving culture and fostering economic development. Their contribution underscores the ongoing role of indigenous peoples in shaping Kentucky’s cultural identity.
Despite the non-participation of both tribes in gambling activities, the complex web of gambling laws across the nation, particularly in Kentucky, where subjects like Kentucky sportsbooks and Kentucky sports betting have taken center stage, remains pertinent.
Understanding the interplay between tribal initiatives and the legal gambling framework provides valuable insights into the intricate dynamics shaping the cultural and economic landscapes of the region.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, there is support available to help you on your journey to recovery.
The toll-free helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER is here to offer guidance, and you can also find assistance by visiting https://www.kygamblinghelp.org. Trained gambling counselors are ready to provide information, resources, and a listening ear to those in need.
Here are some, not all, organizations in Kentucky that offer gambling addiction treatment and support:
In Kentucky, gambling regulations have traditionally been restrictive. The state’s vibrant pari mutuel horse racing industry stands out, with renowned racetracks like Churchill Downs hosting the Kentucky Derby.
While casinos are absent, a notable change occurred in March 2023 when the state legalized land-based and mobile sports betting, marking a significant shift since its state lottery’s inception in 1988.
The online gambling landscape in Kentucky reflects a mix of legalization and unregulated segments. Online sports betting gained approval, with the first mobile sportsbooks set to launch by September 2023.
These top-tier online sportsbooks promise a new dimension to Kentucky’s betting options. Historic horse racing and lottery ticket sales also ventured online. However, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) operators operate within a legal gray area due to their skill-based nature, lacking legal validation.
On the other hand, online casino gaming and poker remain unregulated. A past legal dispute with offshore operators raised questions about their status. Kentucky enthusiasts can explore this dynamic landscape, characterized by both established and emerging gambling opportunities.
This makes the state’s gambling scene intriguing for enthusiasts and regulators alike, offering various avenues for betting, including some of the safest online bookies.
As of March 31, 2023, the state of Kentucky has embraced sports betting, opening up exciting opportunities for residents to engage in wagering on various sports events through a KY sportsbook while adhering to Kentucky gambling laws.
While the state has established regulations for sportsbooks, it’s imperative for bettors to grasp the tax implications of their potential winnings. This section will provide an in-depth understanding of how sports betting taxes operate, including reporting obligations, payment procedures, and the specific tax rates applicable to different types of KY sportsbooks.
In Kentucky, similar to most states, the taxation of gambling winnings depends on multiple factors such as the amount won, the type of gambling, and the individual’s overall financial circumstances.
In the context of sports betting, any winnings from bets placed within the state may be subject to taxation, but only if the bettor concludes the year with a net profit from their gambling activities. Read this online gambling tax guide for more info on the subject.
For individuals signing up with Kentucky sports betting sites, it’s strongly advised to complete Form W-9. This form serves as a declaration of your taxpayer identification number, certifying that you’re not subject to backup withholding. By providing this information, you prevent the sportsbook from withholding a federal tax of 25% and a local tax of 6% on winnings exceeding $600 from a single wager.
Additionally, if your winnings amount to 300 times the size of your bet, the sports betting platform will also apply the same withholding tax. Filling out Form W-9 ensures that your winnings are paid in full, and you can fulfill your tax obligations directly with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at the conclusion of the tax year.
Kentucky sports bettors can deduct gambling losses from any gambling winnings accrued over the year. This deduction minimizes the taxable amount of winnings, allowing bettors to pay taxes solely on their net profits. Maintaining meticulous records of both wins and losses, especially when utilizing multiple sportsbooks, is essential to accurately calculate the deductible amount.
Should you generate an overall profit from your gambling endeavors, including sports betting, throughout the year, you’ll be required to pay taxes on those winnings. The tax year extends from January 1 to December 31. In Kentucky, the tax rate applied to sports betting winnings is in line with the state’s personal income tax rate, determined by your total annual income.
It’s important to note that the tax rates for sports betting winnings differ based on the type of sportsbook. As stipulated in the Kentucky sports betting bill, the tax rate for retail sportsbooks is set at 9.75%. However, for online sportsbooks, including popular platforms such as BetMGM Kentucky, the tax rate increases to 14.25%.
Adhering to Kentucky’s sports betting laws and fulfilling tax obligations transparently is crucial. Neglecting to report gambling winnings can lead to penalties and potential legal repercussions, as the IRS holds the authority to investigate unreported income and instances of tax evasion.
No, online poker is not legal in Kentucky. The state has not legalized or regulated online poker activities. If you’re interested in playing poker, you might want to look at Kentucky poker sites as a good offshore alternative.
The landscape of sports betting promotions and online no-deposit bonuses in Kentucky can change frequently. To find the current best offers, we recommend exploring various sportsbooks operating in the state.
The legal age for sports betting in Kentucky, as per US gambling age laws, is 18 years old.
In addition to sports betting, Kentucky offers participation in a state lottery and charitable gaming like bingo and raffles. While there are limited casino options in the state, you can explore Kentucky casino apps for a fun casino experience.
The legality of daily fantasy sports (DFS) in Kentucky exists within a gray area. While DFS operators assume a stance of legality due to the lack of explicit prohibition, the practice has not been formally legalized.
The federal ban called PASPA: Sports Protection Act previously limited gambling opportunities in Kentucky by preventing the legalization of sports betting. With its repeal in 2018, Kentucky and other states gained the ability to regulate and expand gambling activities, including sports betting, within their jurisdictions.
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