Massachusetts Delays First Retail Sports Betting License

The process of launching sports betting in Massachusetts is gradually progressing. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) is currently evaluating 15 applications and has postponed the decision on the first retail sports betting license. Although there have been criticisms about their slow pace, the recent delay appears to be valid and has gained attention nationwide due to a detailed article in The New York Times.

Relationship Between PENN Sports Interactive And Barstool Sports

The MGC has made the recent decision to postpone the vote on granting Plainridge Park Casino’s retail sports betting application until next week. This delay is primarily attributed to the fact that the casino is owned and operated by PENN Sports Interactive (PSI), which has a significant association with Barstool Sports. This connection has given the commission reason to pause and reconsider granting the sports betting license at present.

Barstool Sports, a digital media company focusing on sports and pop culture, has come under scrutiny in a recent article by the New York Times. The piece sheds light on the tactics and conduct of Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, and the company itself within the gaming industry. The article labels Portnoy as a “reckless gambler” and accuses the company of targeting college students and younger individuals through their advertising strategies. This poses a significant issue as it directly contradicts the Gaming Commission’s efforts to reduce advertising towards individuals under the age of 21.

According to the November 20 article in The New York Times by Emily Steel, industry watchdogs believe that Mr. Portnoy is the primary influencer in the United States who is promoting irresponsible behavior among his large group of followers. These followers largely consist of young men, a demographic that researchers have identified as particularly susceptible to experiencing issues related to excessive gaming.

The MGC is actively prioritizing the prevention of underage sports gambling, demonstrating their proactive approach towards addressing potential problems in advance.

Massachusetts Cracks Down on Underage Sports Gambling

The Relationship’s Impact On Sports Betting License

During the public meeting where the commission decided to postpone the vote, additional information surfaced about PSI’s ownership stake in Barstool Sports and its strong reliance on the company’s extensive base of young followers.

The Plainridge Park representative discussed their proposal for a retail sports betting area in the casino, which would be branded as Barstool Sportsbook, pending the approval of a retail sports betting license. They also stated that Barstool Sportsbook would serve as their online sports betting partner once it is legalized. Considering the significance of this partnership and the information revealed in the New York Times article, the commission decided to take a break and resume the discussion at a later time.

Commissioner Eileen O’Brien expressed her concerns about the association between PENN Entertainment, Plainridge Park Casino, and the Barstool Sports brand. She emphasized the need to thoroughly evaluate the suitability, honesty, and integrity of the applicants and suggested that the commission should engage in a discussion regarding this matter.

Starting in January 2023, retail sports betting may be allowed in Massachusetts, while mobile betting apps are expected to be available in late February or early March. It is highly likely that major sportsbooks will receive approval, but the status of the Plainridge Park Casino remains uncertain. It will be important to keep an eye on whether or not it is granted a license.