Kentucky sports betting has finally gone live, marking an exciting new chapter for sports bettors in the Bluegrass State. As of September 2023, both online and retail sports betting are officially legal, with in-person wagering launching earlier on September 7. Eight sportsbook brands, including industry leaders like DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, BetMGM, and Caesars, have entered the market, offering competitive sign-up bonuses and promotions. Whether you prefer the convenience of betting from your mobile device or the excitement of a retail sportsbook, Kentucky now offers something for everyone.
This guide provides an authoritative look at Kentucky’s new sports betting landscape, helping you navigate everything from bonus offers to popular betting markets. With several trusted operators already live and more expected to join, it’s essential to find the platform that best suits your preferences. From detailed sportsbook reviews to insights on payment methods, promotions, and supported sports, this resource equips you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and get the most out of your Kentucky sports betting experience.
Is sports betting legal in Kentucky?
As of March 31, 2023, sports betting in Kentucky is legal, thanks to Governor Andy Beshear who enacted the state’s sports betting legislation. This transformative law initiated a wave of changes in the Kentucky sports betting landscape, offering up to 30 sportsbooks the opportunity to provide mobile sports betting services. On September 7, 2023 Kentucky residents could bet on retail sports betting venues, and shortly after, online sports betting launched on September 28, 2023. The legalization marks a new era in the Bluegrass State’s sports culture, making it easier and legal for sports enthusiasts to place their bets.
There are currently nine operators authorized to run retail sportsbooks in the state, and each operator can partner with as many as three online sportsbooks to launch mobile sports betting apps.
| Operator | Racetrack |
|---|---|
| Churchill Downs, Inc. | Churchill Downs |
| ECL Corbin | Cumberland Run |
| Ellis Entertainment | Ellis Park |
| Keeneland Association | Keeneland |
| Kentucky Downs | Kentucky Downs |
| Lexington Trots Breeders | Red Mile |
| Turfway Park | Turfway Park |
| WKY Development | Oak Grove |
| Speedway Motorsports | Kentucky Speedway |
In May 2023, Caesars announced a partnership with Keeneland and Red Mile Gaming & Racing to operate an online betting app in the state as well as a retail sportsbook at each location. DraftKings, FanDuel, and several other market leaders are expected to strike similar deals soon and make their platforms available to Kentucky’s 4.5 million residents.
List Of Kentucky Sportsbooks
Bet365 Sportsbook
Bet365 Sportsbook Kentucky has quickly made a name for itself as a top-tier option for sports bettors in the Bluegrass State. Partnering with Sandy’s Gaming and Racing, Bet365 offers a well-designed and user-friendly app packed with daily odds boosts, an impressive selection of over 40 sports, and two standout welcome bonus options. New users can either deposit $10 to access up to $1,000 in First Bet Safety Net bonus bets or bet $5 to claim $150 in bonus bets. While the app’s sleek interface enhances the betting experience, occasional bugs when navigating between sections can be a minor drawback.
What truly sets Bet365 apart in Kentucky is its versatility and extensive market coverage. Bettors can explore a range of options, including spreads, totals, futures, and props, while also enjoying niche betting opportunities like ski jumping and handball alongside popular sports. Live betting is a highlight, with options available across mainstream and niche sports, providing a dynamic, real-time experience. Add in features like Bet Boosts and Parlay Boosts, and it’s clear why Bet365 is a must-have sportsbook for Kentucky bettors. Its commitment to consistent promotions, competitive odds, and personalized display settings makes it a standout choice in the state’s burgeoning sports betting market.
BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM Sportsbook Kentucky stands out as a top choice for bettors in the Bluegrass State, offering a robust platform backed by one of the most recognizable names in gambling. Partnered with Sandy’s Gaming and Racing, BetMGM provides a user-friendly mobile app rated 4.8/5 on iOS and 4.4/5 on Android, catering to both novice and seasoned bettors. Its standout “edit my bet” feature adds a layer of flexibility that few competitors can match. From major leagues like the NFL and NBA to niche sports like cycling and boxing, BetMGM covers an extensive range of markets with competitive odds and live betting options to keep the excitement going.
What sets BetMGM apart in Kentucky is its generous promotions and innovative features. New users can take advantage of a lucrative welcome bonus, while daily promos like parlay insurance, odds boosts, and referral incentives keep existing bettors engaged. The platform also offers live streaming, early cash-out options, and a seamless interface for a premium betting experience. Whether you’re exploring its comprehensive sportsbook or taking advantage of its abundant bonuses, BetMGM Kentucky ensures a rewarding and versatile platform for all sports betting enthusiasts.
DraftKings Sportsbook –
DraftKings Sportsbook Kentucky has solidified its position as one of the top betting platforms in the state, offering a seamless blend of sports betting and daily fantasy sports. Known for its intuitive mobile app, rated an impressive 4.8/5, DraftKings provides Kentuckians with an exceptional user experience, complete with a wide array of sports markets, bet types, and competitive odds. Features like the Pools tournaments allow players to engage in friendly competition, while the platform’s live-betting options ensure a dynamic wagering experience. The sportsbook is especially popular for its extensive NFL markets and attractive odds, making it a go-to option for football fans.
DraftKings goes the extra mile with its robust rewards system and commitment to player satisfaction. Bettors can earn DK Crowns on nearly every wager, redeemable for bonus bet tokens and exclusive perks, adding significant value to each bet. With a host of ongoing promotions, including odds boosts, same-game parlay protection (SGPx), and early win tokens, DraftKings ensures there’s always something exciting on offer. Coupled with its responsible gambling tools, such as customizable limits and cooling-off periods, DraftKings Sportsbook Kentucky strikes the perfect balance between entertainment and user safety, making it an essential platform for sports bettors in the Bluegrass State.
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel Sportsbook Kentucky has quickly established itself as a top-tier sportsbook in the state, offering a user-friendly app and competitive odds that cater to both seasoned and novice bettors. New users are welcomed with an enticing bonus of up to $150 in bonus bets, while the app’s intuitive design makes it easy to navigate for all levels of players. With a range of exciting features like live betting, live streaming, and the popular same-game parlays, FanDuel Kentucky delivers an engaging and dynamic sports betting experience. The sportsbook’s extensive sports coverage, which includes major leagues as well as niche sports, ensures there’s something for every bettor.
What truly sets FanDuel Kentucky apart is its consistent offering of valuable promotions and bonuses, designed to keep users engaged. In addition to the welcome offer, bettors can take advantage of weekly specials like Dinger Tuesdays for MLB bettors and Swing for the Greens for PGA fans. The platform also offers ongoing odds boosts and same-game parlay boosts to enhance betting opportunities. While FanDuel Kentucky doesn’t feature a traditional loyalty program, its vast array of ongoing promotions more than makes up for it, providing bettors with plenty of ways to maximize their experience. With partnerships with Churchill Downs’ racetracks, FanDuel is poised to maintain its position as one of the most trusted sportsbooks in Kentucky.
Circa Sportsbook
Circa Sports Kentucky brings its renowned Las Vegas-based sportsbook experience to the Bluegrass State, offering unique betting options and a commitment to high-quality customer service. Known for having the lowest hold in the industry and offering massive betting limits, Circa Sports has quickly established a reputation for providing a standout sports betting experience. While the online sportsbook is relatively new in Kentucky, Circa has already built a loyal customer base by offering distinctive betting markets like yes/no future bets and innovative parlays. Bettors in Kentucky can expect the same high standards that have made Circa a top choice in states like Colorado, Iowa, and Nevada.
Although Circa Sports Kentucky doesn’t offer a traditional welcome bonus for new users, its strong brand recognition and exceptional service more than make up for it. The sportsbook’s emphasis on large betting limits and user-focused features makes it a go-to for serious sports bettors. While the launch of a retail sportsbook is still in the works, Circa plans to set up shop along the Kentucky-Tennessee border, potentially catering to bettors from both states. With its impressive track record and plans for expansion, Circa Sports Kentucky is poised to become a major player in the state’s rapidly growing sports betting market.
Most bet on teams at Kentucky Sportsbooks
While there are no major professional sports teams located in the state of Kentucky, there are still plenty of teams to cheer for both in the state and in neighboring states. Here are a few of the most popular teams players will bet on in the Bluegrass State:
University of Louisville
The University of Louisville has a rich athletic tradition and is home to the Louisville Cardinals. The university’s sports program competes in the NCAA Division I as part of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
The Cardinals have a highly successful men’s basketball program, known for its intense rivalries, including an annual matchup against the University of Kentucky Wildcats. The Cardinals also excel in other sports like football, baseball, soccer, and women’s basketball. The teams represent the university with pride and have a very dedicated and passionate fan base.
University of Kentucky
Based in Lexington, the University of Kentucky Wildcats compete in the NCAA Division I as part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The men’s basketball team is especially prominent, consistently ranked among the top programs in the country.
The Wildcats have won plenty of national championships and boast a passionate fan base known as “Big Blue Nation.” The university has also experienced great success in other sports such as football, baseball, volleyball, and track and field, generating widespread support and enthusiasm.
Louisville City FC
Louisville City FC is a professional soccer team that competes in the United Soccer League (USL) Championship, the second tier of professional soccer in the United States. Since its establishment in 2015, Louisville City FC has achieved remarkable success, winning multiple USL championships.
The team plays its home games at Lynn Family Stadium, which has become a vibrant hub for soccer fans in Louisville. Louisville City FC has gained a dedicated following and contributes to the growth of soccer in the region.
Other Nearby Professional Teams
In addition to the in-state teams discussed above, plenty of Kentucky residents root for professional sports teams in bordering states. The Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals, Indianapolis Colts, and Tennessee Titans all have strong fan bases in Louisville, Lexington, and other cities across the state of Kentucky.
It is also fairly common for Kentucky residents to root for former alumni of the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky in the NBA, NFL, and other major league sports. For example, a large section of UofL fans have adopted the Baltimore Ravens as their favorite football team because of Lamar Jackson’s role as their starting quarterback.
Strategies & Tips for Kentucky Sports Betting
If you’re new to the world of sports betting or just looking for some extra tips to help take your game to the next level, then you’re in luck. Here are some helpful strategies to implement and guidelines to follow to increase your chances of success:
- Do Your Research: There is nothing more valuable than thorough research. This involves gathering information about the teams, players, statistics, and any other factors that can influence the outcome of a game. By doing your homework, you can make more informed betting decisions based on a solid understanding of the factors at play.
- Practice Proper Bankroll Management: Bankroll management is a crucial aspect of successful sports betting. It involves effectively managing your betting funds to ensure long-term sustainability and minimize the risk of significant losses. This tip suggests allocating a portion of your bankroll to each bet, typically a small percentage, to ensure you have enough funds to continue betting even during losing streaks.
- Track Your Bets and Analyze Results: Keep a record of your bets, including the types of bets, stakes, and outcomes. This will help you analyze your performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Tracking your bets allows for continuous improvement and helps you make more informed decisions over time.
- Don’t Bet Emotionally: Placing emotional, non-strategic, or desperate bets is the last thing you want to do. Avoid chasing your losses, and don’t allow your preference for one team or player over another influence the strategy behind the bets you make.
- Shop for the Best Odds: Lastly, consider signing up for accounts with multiple sportsbooks. This will allow you to take advantage of multiple welcome offers and also shop for the best odds each time you plan to make a bet.
Kentucky Sports Betting FAQ
Yes, sports betting was legalized in Kentucky in March 2023. However, the first online and retail sportsbooks did not go live before September 28, 2023.
Caesars Sportsbook has already announced its plans to operate as an online and retail sportsbook in Kentucky. DraftKings, FanDuel, Bet365 and BetMGM were also early to launch in Kentucky.
Yes, you need to be at least 18 years or older to place sports bets in the state of Kentucky.
You can bet on a wide range of sports in Kentucky, including but not limited to basketball, football, baseball, hockey, soccer, MMA, golf, tennis, and motorsports. Both professional and collegiate athletic events are eligible for wagers.
