Hard Rock Bet has officially launched its mobile sportsbook in Illinois, offering residents a new option for placing bets on their favorite sports. The company also announced the grand opening of the Rockford Casino, providing even more opportunities for gamblers in the state. This marks the first mobile sportsbook launch in Illinois since Circa Sports in September 2023, following almost a year without any new options for sports betting enthusiasts.
Illinois has become a major player in the sports betting market, with a $3.96 billion handle since launching in 2020. In 2023 alone, the state generated over $1 billion in total sports betting revenue. Now, with Hard Rock Bet entering the scene, it will be interesting to see how they compete with established sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings.
One challenge Hard Rock Bet may face is the new tax rate in Illinois, with Governor J.B. Pritzker implementing a progressive tax system that could potentially hit operators like FanDuel and DraftKings with a 40% tax rate. Despite this hurdle, the company is optimistic about its prospects in the Illinois market and is focusing on offering unique features like parlay and same-game parlay options to attract customers.
Overall, the introduction of Hard Rock Bet’s mobile sportsbook in Illinois signals a new chapter in the state’s sports betting landscape, providing more choices for consumers and potentially driving even more revenue for the industry. As the market continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how Hard Rock Bet distinguishes itself and competes with the established players in the industry.
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