Legalized betting in Arizona kicked off along with the NFL season in 2021, and locals clearly took a liking to it.
More than $5 billion was wagered in the first year, as Arizona has already established itself as a top-10 market in the United States, according to the Arizona Department of Gaming.
While most of the betting is done online, there are 25 different authorized retail sports betting facilities.
The Arizona Cardinals have partnered with BetMGM and will have the first-ever sportsbook at an NFL stadium beginning this season.
Truly one of a kind 🤩
A first look at the FIRST EVER Sportsbook at an NFL Stadium. pic.twitter.com/oZpMG20oza
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) September 8, 2022
Bettors wagered more than $290 million in July, and the state of Arizona has now collected more than $18 million in privilege fees since the institution of legalized gambling last September.
FanDuel had the most money wagered online and in-person in July with a total handle of around $92 million. That was followed closely by DraftKings at approximately $90 million, while BetMGM ($54 million), Caesars ($27 million) and Penn ($9 million) rounded out the top-5.
The NFL season promises plenty more action, and the state will host the Super Bowl in February, which is bound to be a boon for sports betting.
“Sports betting gives another opportunity for tourists to visit our state, particularly for major sporting events,” said Ted Vogt, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming.
