Betsson has agreed a deal with Colorado’s Dostal Alley Casino to launch online sports wagering in the state, in a venture that will also mark the operator’s entrance into the US market.
Under the 10-year market access agreement, Betsson said it plans to launch its B2C sportsbook in Colorado during the first part of 2021, subject to regulatory approval in the state.
Betsson said that the launch will form part of its ongoing strategy to expand into new and regulated markets, including establishing a presence in the US.
It will initially open a small office in Colorado, with the long-term aim of moving into other states and also selling its proprietary sportsbook to B2B customers.
“The whole country has a strong culture of gambling and is now experiencing online penetration at accelerated pace, where consumers are transitioning from traditional retail outlets to also now bet on their mobile devices,” Betsson’s president and chief executive Pontus Lindwall said.
“We have followed the development in the US closely since the possibility of a repeal of the [Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act] and have carefully considered ways to enter the market.
“Dostal Alley Casino has more than 60 years of experience of doing business in Colorado and will play an important role in our journey to build US presence.”
CinDee Spellman, chief financial officer of Dostal Alley Casino, which is located in Central City, Colorado, added: “As a company with over 28 years in the gaming business, we are thrilled to welcome Betsson to the US as we partner with them for online sports betting in Colorado.”
Colorado opened its regulated online sports betting market on May 1 this year, with the total handle for the first month of legal wagering reaching $25.5m.