The Cincinnati Bengals today announced a partnership with UK-based Betfred to become the team’s official sports betting partner.
With sports betting in Ohio set to go live on Jan. 1, the Bengals have now applied for their online license and lined up an operator. Betfred Ohio plans to launch the team’s sports betting app, which will be usable anywhere in the state.
Brian Sells, Bengals vice president and chief marketing officer, said: “The Bengals continue to look for exciting new ways to enhance the fan experience and this partnership will provide additional opportunities to engage with our fans.”
“We look forward to working with Betfred to create fun, fan-focused activations that add to the excitement on gameday.”
Bengals were first pro team to apply for Ohio sports betting license
The Bengals filed their application to operate an online sportsbook last week. They are the only professional sports franchise in Ohio to apply before the final week of the first application window, which runs June 15-July 15.
That is sure to change in the coming days, as the seven other Ohio pro teams and several casinos and racinos are certain to submit applications ahead of the deadline.
[Related: These Ohio Sportsbooks Still Need To Apply For Ohio Sports Betting Licenses]
The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton has also applied and will partner with with BetRivers Sportsbook to operate its retail sportsbook in the Hall of Fame Village.
Betfred expands access to the U.S. sports betting market
Betfred is a U.S.-owned subsidiary of UK-owned Betfred Group, a bookmaker that owns and operates over 1,400 betting shops in the UK.
Betfred currently operates in six U.S. states and is also the betting sponsor of the NFL’s Denver Broncos and MLB’s Colorado Rockies. The company is currently licensed in Arizona, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Washington, and Colorado, while waiting on approval in Nevada and Maryland.
“This is an exciting opportunity to partner with the Bengals as we continue to expand Betfred across the U.S. and into Ohio with the launch of sports betting in the near future,” said Mark Stebbings, Betfred Group chief operating officer.
“The Bengals are a premier franchise with a passionate fanbase and a history of innovation that aligns with our brand. We look forward to engaging with fans across the state as we introduce them to unique betting promotions and content throughout the year.”
What’s next for Ohio sports betting?
Ohio’s first sports betting license application window closes on July 15. Many big-time operators will be announced shortly thereafter.
In order to launch on Jan. 1, all online sportsbooks, retail sportsbooks and operators of betting terminals must submit applications by July 15.
The second application window will run from July 15-Aug. 15. Bars, restaurants and other businesses looking to host a betting kiosk operator may apply during this window.
PlayOhio is tracking the most recent sports betting operator applications and the latest launch and news information.
