After a whirlwind journey filled with legal battles and delays, Florida sports betting is finally here. But how’s the Sunshine State faring in this exciting new market?
Florida’s sports betting odyssey began in 2021 with a compact between the Seminole Tribe and the state government. This agreement allowed the Tribe to launch retail sports betting at their casinos and a mobile app, Hard Rock Bet.
However, the launch was short-lived. Challenges from commercial businesses halted the operation within weeks.
Read: As Seminole Tribe Offers Online Sports Betting In Florida, Questions Swirl Around Fantasy Sports
The legal battle centered around whether the Seminole Tribe had exclusive rights to control sports betting in the state. The courts eventually sided with the Tribe, allowing Hard Rock Bet to resume operations in December 2023. In June 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a final challenge, solidifying the Tribe’s control.
As of today, Hard Rock Bet remains the only legal sports betting option in Florida. While some hoped for a more open market with competition from major sportsbooks, the Tribe’s exclusive status remains in place.
Despite the limited options, Florida sports fans seem to be embracing the opportunity to wager on their favorite teams. Hard Rock Bet boasts a user-friendly app and offers various betting options. However, some bettors express a desire for more competition, which could potentially lead to better odds and promotions.
Read: Listen: Hulk Hogan And Derrick Brooks On Red Carpet At Seminole Hard Rock Tampa
The future of Florida sports betting remains uncertain. Lawmakers might revisit the issue and attempt to expand the market, but for now, the Seminole Tribe holds the reins.
What to Watch For
- Will the Legislature push for a more open market in the future?
- Could future legal challenges arise?
- How will the Seminole Tribe continue to develop the Hard Rock Bet platform?
Florida’s foray into sports betting has been eventful, to say the least. While fans can now enjoy placing legal wagers, the limitations of the current system leave some wondering if this is the final play, or just the beginning of a longer game.
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