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The Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) approved online sports betting operator licenses for both SuperBook Sports and Crab Sports this morning.
SWARC approved both applications unanimously. Both the SuperBook and Crab Sports’ online sports betting platforms must undergo controlled demonstrations with the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) before they can go live.
Two new Maryland online sports betting operators
Both operators will be able to go live soon in the state after being approved by the MLGCA. SBOpco, the parent company of SuperBook, has been approved by the MLGCA for an online sports betting license, an online sports betting operator license, and a retail sports betting operator license in the Old Line State.
SuperBook currently operates online sportsbooks in six states, with expectations to launch sports betting in 15 or more states in the near future. It also currently operates retail sportsbook in two states.
SuperBook did previously announce a partnership with the Baltimore Orioles for a sports betting “lounge” at Camden Yards, but the MLB franchise does not currently hold a retail sports betting license and no hearings are scheduled. In other states, sports betting lounges are typically branded areas in a stadium or arena where fans can access wifi and place online bets, but cannot place retail sports bets.
Crab Sports is a privately-held Delaware corporation formed in Oct. 22, 2021. The operator is a start-up venture focused solely on the Maryland sports betting market. According to its application, it will focus on engaging local Maryland businesses to build market share through performance driven partnerships.
This is the first of the relatively small mobile sports wagering license applicants that SWARC will consider, Chairman Thomas Brandt noted.
There are currently eight online sportsbooks that are live in the state. BetFred launched in the state last week and is partnered with Long Shot’s a Frederick-based off-track betting facility.
Maryland January sports betting figures released
Maryland sports betting figures were also released for January, as the MLGCA reported the state’s 10 retail and eight online sportsbooks combined for $441.48 million in handle, generating $2.1 million in taxes for the state.
Online sports betting generated $422.65 million in January, which resulted in $1.88 million in taxes to the state.
Here are the handle figures for the seven online sportsbooks for the month:
- BetMGM: $40,718,830.72
- BetRivers: $2,785,203.68
- Caesars: $19,959,874.20
- DraftKings: $131,928,610.49
- Barstool Sportsbook: $12,588,039.87
- FanDuel: $208,878,840.38
- PointsBet: $5,798, 554.42
Robert is an expert on sports betting in the United States, specifically the legalization process and regulation surrounding the industry.
