Mobile sports betting was legalized in Arkansas in late February and the state’s three casinos launched on-site wagering. But non-Android users still are waiting for a betting app. Southland Casino Racing operates Betly sportsbook, which is available within the state but only via an Android app.
Saracen Casino Resort officials originally said their online sportsbook would launch in time for March Madness. But in a recent tweet, Saracen Casino Chief Marketing Officer Carlton Saffa wrote, “Everything for the app is approved, but we’re still in a waiting game with external vendors. Hoping to have a bigger update soon, but it’s out of our hands for the time being. We’ll post as soon as we know more.”
Another reason for the delay, Saffa explained, is Saracen wants to drop sports betting as a complete product, not in stages, like Betly.
Southland and Saracen previously projected smartphone start dates but have stopped. Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort estimated its mobile betting platform could launch in a few months. Because of the state’s 51 percent revenue-sharing requirement, BetMGM, DraftKings and FanDuel are not expected to enter Arkansas anytime soon.
