BetMGM, the joint venture between MGM Resorts and GVC Holdings, has been named the first official sports betting partner of National Football League franchise the Detroit Lions.
The partnership will see BetMGM branding displayed around the Lions’ Ford Field stadium, while the operator will gain a presence on team’s broadcast programming and digital channels.
The deal builds on an existing relationship between MGM Resorts and the Lions, which saw the operator open the MGM Grand Detroit Tunnel Club at Ford Field.
“The Detroit Lions historic relationship with BetMGM has been years in the making and we’re proud to announce details of our official partnership,” Detroit Lions team president Rod Wood said.
“We’re continuously seeking new ways to entertain and involve our fans which is especially important during such unusual times; this partnership with BetMGM will provide additional and exciting opportunities to engage our fans.”
BetMGM chief marketing officer Matt Prevost added: “When we first opened the BetMGM Sports Lounge at MGM Grand Detroit in March, we hoped to develop deep relationships with the state’s top teams.
“We are honored to be the first sports betting partner of the Lions and to offer their fans access to a variety of best-in-class promotions and perks only available on BetMGM.”
The agreement also sees BetMGM become a presenting partner of Lions Bingo, a free-to-play game available through the team’s mobile app, in which fans predict what plays might happen or statistics achieved during home and away games. Through the tie-up with BetMGM, players will be able to win cash prizes and all-expenses paid trips to MGM properties across the US.
Finally BetMGM will become a partner of Lions Perks, a rewards scheme launched by the team in 2018 where loyalty points are collected for purchasing merchandise or food and drink at Ford Field.
This offers fans the chance to collect rewards, participate in sweepstakes, or take advantage of special offers, and perks awarded through the scheme can also be donated to charity.
“All of us at MGM Grand Detroit are eager and ready to welcome the Detroit Lions and sports betting fans to our BetMGM Sports Lounge this football season,” MGM Resorts president for the midwest region David Tsai said.
“We know everyone is eager to get out of their homes and add some fun into their calendars. We are committed to raising the bar in delivering unique and entertaining experiences.”
BetMGM was one of the first sports betting brands to launch in Michigan, with a dedicated sports lounge opened at the MGM Grand Detroit in March this year.
In recent months the brand has announced a wave of new partnerships with teams and leagues, sealing deals with Colorado NFL franchise the Denver Broncos; golf’s PGA Tour and stock car racing series Nascar.