Caesars Launches First Legal Online Sports Betting in North Carolina

Caesars Entertainment has made history by initiating legal online sports betting in North Carolina, marking a significant milestone in the state's gambling landscape. Through a strategic partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Caesars has emerged as the pioneering operator in this endeavor.

Despite North Carolina's scheduled full-scale launch of legal sports betting on March 11, Caesars has gained a competitive edge by securing a deal with the tribe and leveraging the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. As a result, players can now place bets at two Cherokee-operated casinos: Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel, as well as on tribal lands.

Caesars' online sports betting platform is poised to expand its reach across all of North Carolina once the market is fully operational. This move complements Caesars' existing retail sportsbooks in the state, promising a comprehensive betting experience for enthusiasts.

Expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts that made this milestone possible, Eric Hession, President of Caesars Digital, highlighted the significance of the partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Michell Hicks, principal of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the anticipation surrounding the introduction of mobile sports betting in North Carolina.

With just one week remaining until the official launch, preparations for sports betting in North Carolina are in full swing. Governor Roy Cooper's approval of House Bill 347 set the stage for a carefully planned implementation timeline, ensuring regulatory compliance and operator readiness.

Leading operators such as FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM have secured licenses, each forming partnerships with sports teams or venues within North Carolina. DraftKings, for instance, has aligned with Nascar, while BetMGM has partnered with the Charlotte Motor Speedway. These collaborations underscore the strategic alliances driving the expansion of legal sports betting in the state.

In addition to operator licenses, approvals have been granted for sports wagering suppliers, including GeoComply, SBTech, and Sportradar, signaling a comprehensive regulatory framework to support the thriving sports betting market in North Carolina.