Caesars Takes Control of Washington, DC Sports Betting Kiosks

Posted on: September 11, 2024, 10:30h. 

Last updated on: September 11, 2024, 10:42h.

Todd Shriber @etfgodfather Read More
Expertise: Financial, Gaming Business, Mergers and Acquisitions.

Caesars Entertainment announced that its Caesars Sportsbook unit is taking over the operation of 53 sports wagering kiosks in Washington, DC previously controlled by GambetDC.

DC Sports Betting Alliance responsible gaming
GambetDC sports betting kiosks in a DC bar. Caesars Sportsbook is taking over the operation of those machines in the city. (Image: Getty)

GambetDC was previously the lone mobile sports wagering application in the US capital city. However, due to a spate of controversies and disappointing performance, Intralot outsourced the operation of its app to Flutter Entertainment’s FanDuel, which took control in April. FanDuel paid a $5 million conversion fee to the Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG) to take over for Intralot.

At that time, it was believed FanDuel would service the kiosks under the expectation that it would remain the city’s lone mobile sports wagering app. That monopoly didn’t last long, however, as the Washington, DC city council sent a fiscal 2025 budget to Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) that included a provision to expand the number of gaming companies offering mobile betting in the city.

That set the stage for FanDuel to explore terminating its contract with the OLG, and for the likes of Caesars Sportsbook and BetMGM to offer mobile sports wagering in the city. As a result of that expansion, Caesars was able to land the kiosk business.

Caesars Familiar to DC Bettors

While Caesars doesn’t operate a land-based casino in Washington, DC, bettors are familiar with the gaming company and its brand. Before offering mobile sports wagering there in July, the company opened a retail sportsbook at Capital One Arena in 2021 – the first sportsbook in a US professional sports team’s home court or stadium.

Our self-service betting kiosks are an excellent addition to our sports wagering options in DC,” said Caesars Digital President Eric Hession in a statement. “Whether sports fans prefer a traditional ticket-in-hand wagering experience or want to simply deposit cash for their mobile app account, our kiosks enhance the premier sports betting experience we offer through the combination of options and convenience that supports dozens of small businesses locally.”

In addition to being able to use the kiosks to place wagers, bettors can also use the machine to add funds to their Caesars Sportsbook mobile accounts. Bets placed via kiosks are also eligible for rewards credits in the Caesars Rewards program.

The kiosks are located throughout the city and are found in bars, taverns, restaurants, and at official lottery retailers.

Caesars Branding Could Help Allay Kiosk Concerns

When the city opted to expand its mobile sports betting market, retailers that are home to the kiosks expressed concern that the move would diminish the appeal of the devices, thus pinching an important revenue stream.

In its press release, Caesars didn’t touch on that issue, but it’s possible the gaming company’s well-known brand and iconic logo will entice bettors to continue using the kiosks.

Financial terms of the gaming company’s deal with the OLG weren’t disclosed.