- NASCAR was one of the first major sports to return to action after the COVID-19 pandemic forced shutown.
- NASCAR betting interest has been strong with many other major sports slow to relaunch.
- BetMGM is available in Colorado, Indiana, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada and West Virginia.
BetMGM has been one of the more aggressive sports betting providers when it comes to forging relationships with sports leagues and media. Earlier this month they announced a partnership with the PGA Tour to become an official sports betting provider. Their most recent collaboration could be one of their most significant. BetMGM has signed a deal with NASCAR to become the auto racing circuit’s second Authorized Gaming Operator joining Penn National.
In this case, there’s a bit more to it than just a co-promotional opportunity. BetMGM and NASCAR will work together to create a variety of betting products including in-race betting. They’ll begin rolling out new offerings this year including pre-race and in-race betting options such as to win wagers and driver matchups. The more interesting component of the partnership will debut next year as BetMGM will offer live in-race betting using official NASCAR scoring and telemetry data:
BetMGM will expand the portfolio of bet types offered on its mobile app throughout the NASCAR season, including pre-race and in-play bets. Bet types currently being explored include top-finishing drivers, driver matchups, stage winners and bets tied to the number of the winning car (over/under), among others. Beginning in 2021, BetMGM will offer live, in-play betting through a partnership with Genius Sports and its sports betting division, Betgenius, as the sport continues to strengthen its position around in-play sports betting. NASCAR and BetMGM are also working together to develop a free-to-play NASCAR game.
According to a press release issued jointly by BetMGM and NASCAR, betting on the sport is booming:
NASCAR has experienced across-the-board growth in its sports betting handle thanks in part to the popularity of the eNASCAR iRacing Pro Invitational Series as well as the sport’s successful return to racing in May. BetMGM has seen NASCAR turnover grow by nearly 1,300% in just the first seven months of the year.
In addition to the wagering collaboration there will be the usual promotional opportunities with MGM allowed to promote using official NASCAR branding. Scott Warfield, NASCAR Managing Director, Gaming is pleased to be working with an industry leader such as BetMGM:
“Partnering with a best-in-class operator like BetMGM positions NASCAR to build on the positive energy and momentum we’re seeing around gaming and in particular the live in-race experience. We’re excited to have such an iconic brand on board to expand our offerings and deepen our engagement with the most passionate fans in sports.”
Matt Prevost, BetMGM’s Chief Marketing Officer, reciprocated these comments:
“We’re excited to work with the NASCAR team to build immersive sports betting experiences that 21st-century racing fans crave. BetMGM’s unparalleled betting technology combined with NASCAR’s iconic races will create a superior betting experience for racing fans all over the United States.”
BetMGM becomes NASCAR’s second Authorized Gaming Operator joining Penn National Gaming which signed on in February 2020.
