Michigan bettors break national record in launch

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Bettors in Michigan helped the state set a national record during the launch of online sportsbooks and casinos.

After opening on Jan. 22, Michigan’s online sportsbooks and casinos went on to wager over $115 million in bets during the remainder of the month. Combined with $35.7 million in wagers placed in-person, Michigan casinos took in over $150 million in sports bets during the month of January, according to data from the Michigan Gaming Control Board.

The $150.8 million wagered in the state broke a record of $131.4 million set by Tennessee bettors in November of 2020. Michigan got off to a quick start in large part because it launched on Jan. 22 with 10 online sportsbooks, more than any other state in U.S. history. That list includes the nation’s two largest operators FanDuel and DraftKings, as well as its main challengers, including Penn National’s Barstool-branded app, BetRivers, and BetMGM.

“There is no questioning the power of online sports betting at this point,” said Matt Schoch, analyst for PlayMichigan.com. “January was just a snapshot, but online betting will eventually account for 90% or more of the state’s total handle, which would put it much more in line with other legal jurisdictions that offer both online and retail betting.”

After first-week promotions lessened the amount of taxable revenue from casinos, Michigan still raised $111,696 in state tax revenue strictly from ten days of sports gambling.