Online Gaming, Sports Betting Begins Friday

Nine operators will be able to launch online sports betting, online gaming or both beginning on Friday, the Michigan Gaming Control Board announced Tuesday after granting its initial round of authorizations for the two types of online activities.

The ability to launch online gaming and online sports betting begins at noon Friday for all nine operators, which includes all three Detroit casinos and six tribal casinos.

In a Tuesday release the MGCB said the few days of lead time before the casinos can launch their online offerings will allow for final testing and preparations prior to going live.

MGCB Executive Director Richard Kalm in a statement called the launch of online gaming and sports betting the beginning of a new era for the industry in the state.

“Michigan residents love sports and, judging by inquiries we’ve received, eagerly anticipate using mobile devices to place bets through the commercial and tribal casinos,” Mr. Kalm said. “Online gaming and sports betting will provide the casinos with new ways to engage with customers while the state and local communities will benefit from taxes and payments on wagering revenue.”

Two of the three Detroit casinos, the MGM Grand Detroit and MotorCity Casino, have obtained authorization for both online casino games and online sports betting. Greektown Casino was granted authorization for only online sports betting.

Six tribal casinos will offer both online gaming and online sports betting: The Bay Mills Indian Community, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, the Hannahville Indian Community, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.