Welcome to our comprehensive guide on sports betting in New Mexico! Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the game, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know to start placing bets in the Land of Enchantment.
From the best sportsbooks and betting strategies to legal considerations and popular sports in the region, we’ll provide you with valuable insights and tips to enhance your sports betting experience in New Mexico. Now, let’s dive right in!
Is Sports Betting Legal in New Mexico?
Just five months after the Supreme Court overturned the Professional & Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in May 2018, New Mexico accepted its first wager and became the sixth U.S. state to offer legalized sports betting.
Federally-recognized Native American tribes in New Mexico were authorized to offer in-person wagering on tribal lands through their compacts with the state and moved quickly once the federal ban on sports betting had been lifted.
Today, five tribal casinos offer retail sports betting in the Land of Enchantment: Buffalo Thunder Casino, Inn of the Mountain Gods, Isleta Resort & Casino, Route 66 Casino, and Santa Ana Star Casino. In addition, there are plenty of other tribal casinos (e.g., Taos Mountain Casino, Black Mesa Casino, and Fire Rock Casino) in the state that may look to launch retail sportsbooks in the upcoming years.
Despite the availability of in-person wagering across the state, online and mobile sports betting is not yet legal in New Mexico, and there is no reason to believe this will change for the foreseeable future.
New Mexico Sports Betting Rules & Regulations
New Mexico sports betting is regulated by each individual tribal gambling commission. As a result, the rules and regulations set at each retail sports betting location may vary slightly. However, a general summary of the state’s betting rules is provided below.
- New Mexico’s 2015 tribal compact allows all forms of Class III gaming, which includes sports betting, on Indian lands within the state. New Mexico’s federally-recognized tribes have exclusive rights to this category of gaming.
- Online and mobile sports betting is not available in New Mexico, and all wagering must take place on casino property.
- The legal age for sports betting in New Mexico is 21 years old, in line with the state’s legal age for casino games.
- Sports betting restrictions are imposed on amateur sporting events, with wagers on in-state colleges (e.g., the University of New Mexico or New Mexico State University) or high school teams being prohibited.
- New Mexico’s racinos (Billy the Kid Casino, Downs at Albuquerque, Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino, and Zia Park Casino, Hotel & Racetrack) are not permitted to offer retail sports betting.
What Are the Best New Mexico Sportsbooks & Betting Sites?
Online and mobile sportsbooks are not yet available in the Land of Enchantment. However, if new legislation was passed that gave the green light to online sports betting, many of the industry’s leaders would jump at the opportunity to enter the New Mexico market. Here are a few of the most likely candidates:
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel Sportsbook is already live in two of New Mexico’s neighboring states (Arizona and Colorado) and is sure to be interested in offering sports betting in another one of the Four Corners States should an opportunity ever arise. With a top-tier mobile app and frequent bonus opportunities, sports bettors all over the United States have made FanDuel their go-to option for online wagering.
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars is another big name in the industry and is always looking to launch its mobile sportsbook in new states across the U.S. Competitive odds, a wide range of betting markets, and excellent customer service are just a taste of what Caesars Sportsbook has to offer its customers. In addition, Caesars provides one of the best customer loyalty programs in the industry, offering rewards ranging from bonus bets to luxurious hotel stays.
BetRivers Sportsbook
BetRivers is also a potential candidate to enter the Land of Enchantment at some point in the future. Daily odds boosts and incredible market coverage are a few of the best features offered by the site. If BetRivers Sportsbook seems like an appealing option, we recommend you try the BetRivers.net Sports Zone, which is available in New Mexico and allows you to place bets for fun and get a feel for the platform.
SI Sportsbook
Last but not least, SI Sportsbook is relatively new to the U.S. sports betting market but has already launched in a handful of states across the country. With plenty of exciting promotional deals available to both new and existing customers as well as a user-friendly website and mobile app, SI Sportsbook provides a great overall sports betting experience.
How Can I Bet on Sports in New Mexico?
New Mexico bettors have a handful of different options currently available to them. A few of the best options for sports betting enthusiasts across the state are discussed below.
Retail Sportsbooks
As previously mentioned, five tribal casinos in New Mexico offer in-person wagering. These retail sports betting locations are located in Albuquerque (x2), Santa Fe, Mescalero, and Bernalillo. As a result, the majority of the state’s population is within reasonable driving distance of a retail sportsbook that currently offers a chance to bet on all your favorite sports and leagues.
Horse Racing
Horse race betting is legal and popular in New Mexico. The state has several race tracks, including Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino and Ruidoso Downs, where bettors can enjoy live racing and place a wide range of bet types (win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, etc.). Online horse betting is also available in New Mexico, as bettors can use TwinSpires, Amwager, FanDuel Racing, and several other platforms to place wagers on races taking place outside of the state.
Daily Fantasy Sports
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) has gained popularity in New Mexico over the years. Platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel allow users to create fantasy teams and compete against others based on the real-life performances of individual players. Participants can enter daily or weekly contests, selecting players within a salary cap. Points are earned based on player performance, and cash prizes are awarded. DFS offers a unique and skill-based form of sports engagement for fans in New Mexico.
Offshore Sportsbooks
Offshore sportsbooks (e.g., MyBookie, Bovada, and BetOnline) are online sports betting platforms based outside of the United States. However, it’s important to note that using offshore sportsbooks can come with risks, such as limited legal protections and potential issues with funds or payouts. It’s advisable to thoroughly research and consider the risks before engaging with offshore sportsbooks.
Visit Neighboring States
New Mexico residents also have the option to visit neighboring states where sports online or retail sports betting is currently available. Arizona currently offers 17 different mobile sports betting platforms to anyone physically located in the state, and Colorado provides over two dozen options to online bettors within their borders. In addition, both states provide plenty of options for in-person wagering if you’d like to explore a new retail sportsbook.
Where Can I Bet on Sports in New Mexico?
There are currently five tribes operating casinos in New Mexico and that offer in-person wagering. Further information about each of these retail sports betting locations is provided below.
Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino
- Retail Sportsbook: Thunder Race & Sportsbook
- Address: 20 Buffalo Thunder Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87506
- Phone Number: 505-455-5555
- Launch Date: March 2019
Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino is located just 15 minutes north of downtown Santa Fe, and the luxurious resort began offering retail sports betting in early 2019. The Thunder Race & Sportsbook features state-of-the-art technology and a full-service bar area, providing an unmatched experience on game day.
Spreads, moneylines, totals, player props, team props, parlays, and many other types of wagers are offered to customers, and both college and professional sporting events are covered by the Thunder Race & Sportsbook in Buffalo Thunder Casino.
Inn of the Mountain Gods
- Retail Sportsbook: Sportsbook at The Inn
- Address: 287 Carrizo Canyon Road, Mescalero, NM 88340
- Phone Number: 575-464-7059
- Launch Date: July 2019
Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino launched its retail sportsbook in the summer of 2019. Powered by William Hill, the Sportsbook at The Inn is located between the Big Game Sports Bar and the Apache Spirit Club.
High-top seating, 12 wide-screen TVs, and innovative sports wagering technology make the Sportsbook at The Inn the perfect place to watch your favorite sports teams and get in on the action. Kiosk sports betting is available 24/7, and a friendly staff is available all day long to offer support and answer any questions you may have.
Isleta Resort & Casino
- Retail Sportsbook: Sports Book at Isleta Resort & Casino
- Address: 11000 Broadway Blvd. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87105
- Phone Number: 505-724-3800
- Launch Date: November 2019
The Sports Book at Isleta Resort & Casino launched in late 2019 to become the second retail sports betting location in the city of Albuquerque. Visitors will have the opportunity to place wagers on a variety of different sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, golf, boxing, MMA, auto racing, and more. Customers will also get to take advantage of Football Frenzy, which offers discounted drinks on college football and NFL game days all season long.
Route 66 Casino
- Retail Sportsbook: The Book at Route 66 Casino
- Address: 14500 Central Ave. SW, Rio Puerco, Albuquerque, NM 87121
- Phone Number: 505-352-7866
- Launch Date: August 2019
The Book at Route 66 Casino opened its doors in August 2019 and was custom designed to bring sports fans a winning formula of expansive wagering options, first-class entertainment, and award-winning customer service. You’re certain to enjoy the Stadium66 Sports Bar, which includes a multi-million dollar sound system, over 70 HD TV screens, a top-notch menu full of fan favorites, and a wide selection of Albuquerque craft brews.
Santa Ana Star Casino
- Retail Sportsbook: Sportsbook at The Star
- Address: 54 Jemez Canyon Dam Road, Bernalillo, NM 87004
- Phone Number: 505-771-5339
- Launch Date: October 2018
Santa Ana Star Casino launched New Mexico’s first sportsbook, Sportsbook at The Star, in late 2018. Customers can visit and place a wide range of bets on all their favorite sports and leagues while enjoying the ultimate gameday experience that includes delicious eats, refreshing cocktails, and a 35-foot wide TV screen.
The Sportsbook at The Star offers self-service betting terminals that are open 16 hours every day (8:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.), and bettors can become a Sportsbook Hall of Famer and use their Star Rewards Card to earn free bets as a reward for their loyalty and continued business.
How To Sign Up & Start Betting in New Mexico
Time needed: 5 minutes.
Are you ready to get started? Listed below are the steps you can take to sign up and begin placing bets on all your favorite players and teams!
- Choose Your Retail Sportsbook
Pick an in-person wagering location that is located near you and offers what you’re looking for in a retail sportsbook.
- Visit the Location
Go to the physical location of the chosen sportsbook during their operating hours.
- Register for an Account
Fill out the registration form provided by the staff. You will be required to provide personal information, including your full name, address, contact details, and social security number.
- Verify Your Identity
Present your identification document to verify your age and identity. The staff will review and confirm your details.
- Agree to the Terms & Conditions
Read and agree to the terms and conditions set by the retail sportsbook. This may include acknowledging their policies regarding responsible gambling and any specific rules they have in place.
- Start Placing Bets
Once your account is set up, you are ready to start placing bets. Approach the betting counter or use the self-service kiosks provided by the retail sportsbook to place your wagers.
What Teams Can I Bet on in New Mexico?
New Mexico has a vibrant sports culture, despite no major professional sports teams being located in the state. Here are a few of the state’s most popular teams:
New Mexico Lobos
The New Mexico Lobos are a beloved collegiate sports team representing the University of New Mexico. Based in Albuquerque, the Lobos participate in football, basketball, baseball, and many other sports. They compete in the Mountain West Conference and have a passionate fan base in New Mexico.
You cannot currently bet on the University of Mexico within state lines, but you can visit Colorado or Arizona to place wagers throughout the season.
New Mexico State Aggies
The New Mexico State Aggies are another prominent collegiate sports team in New Mexico. They represent New Mexico State University in Las Cruces and compete in the Western Athletic Conference.
With a rich history and strong athletic programs, the Aggies have garnered a dedicated following among New Mexico sports fans, who cheer for their success and proudly support their alma mater. Unfortunately, you are also currently unable to bet on the Aggies’ games within the state of New Mexico.
Dallas Cowboys
While not a New Mexico-based team, the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys have a massive fan base in the state. As New Mexico does not have its own NFL team, many residents adopt the Cowboys as their favorite professional football team. The Cowboys’ games are widely televised and followed by fans across New Mexico. You can visit any of the state’s retail sportsbooks to bet on the Cowboys all season long.
Tips & Tricks for New Mexico Bettors
For New Mexico residents looking to improve their sports betting game, here are some valuable tips and tricks to consider:
- Control Your Emotions: Emotions can often cloud judgment and lead to impulsive betting decisions. Learn to detach yourself emotionally from your bets and make objective choices based on data and analysis.
- Specialize & Focus: Instead of spreading your bets across multiple sports or leagues, consider specializing in a specific sport or a few select leagues. This allows you to become more knowledgeable and gain an edge over bookmakers.
- Track Your Bets: Maintain a record of your bets, including the type of bet, stake, odds, and outcomes. This allows you to analyze your performance, identify patterns, and make adjustments for future betting.
- Stay Disciplined: Patience and discipline are essential traits for successful sports bettors. Avoid making hasty decisions or deviating from your betting strategy during losing streaks. Stick to your plan and trust the process.
- Listen to the Experts: Follow reliable sports analysts, experts, and handicappers who provide valuable insights and predictions. While not foolproof, these opinions can help you gather additional information for your betting considerations.
- Explore Different Bet Types: Don’t limit yourself to traditional straight bets. Experiment with different bet types like parlays, teasers, or prop bets. However, always assess the risks and potential rewards before diving into more complex wagering options.
New Mexico Sports Betting FAQ
Yes! Sports betting is legal in New Mexico. However, New Mexico is a retail-only state, meaning online wagering is unavailable and you’ll need to place your bets in person.
Online sports betting is not yet available in New Mexico. However, FanDuel, Caesars, BetRivers, and SI Sportsbook are a few of the top U.S. sportsbooks that are likely to enter the New Mexico market should an opportunity ever arise.
The legal betting age in the state of New Mexico is 21 years old.
There are currently five retail sports betting locations in the state of New Mexico: Buffalo Thunder Casino, Inn of the Mountain Gods, Isleta Resort & Casino, Route 66 Casino, and Santa Ana Star Casino.
Yes, you can bet on college sporting events in the state of New Mexico. That said, you cannot place wagers on in-state schools, such as the University of New Mexico or New Mexico State University.