It’s clear that the increasing legalization of sports gambling in the United States has had a significant impact on the Super Bowl and the gambling industry as a whole.
The fact that Super Bowl 57 was played in a state where sports gambling is legal likely played a major role in the record-breaking numbers seen this year. As more states legalize sports gambling, it’s possible that these numbers will only continue to grow in future years.
It’s also interesting to note the significant role that technology is playing in sports gambling, with companies like GeoComply and FanDuel utilizing advanced digital platforms to handle millions of transactions and bets during the Super Bowl. This shows how the intersection of technology and sports gambling is becoming increasingly important and shaping the industry in new and innovative ways.
The intense wagering on this year’s Super Bowl was not limited to just one market, as evidenced by record-breaking numbers seen across the country. In Las Vegas, where sports betting is already well-established, MGM Resorts reported the highest Super Bowl handle in the company’s history, with a significant portion of bets placed through the BetMGM app.
BetMGM’s success was echoed by other sportsbooks, with DraftKings also reporting a massive payout of $2.68 million to one bettor who put $1.68 million on the Kansas City Chiefs. Prop bets were also popular, with Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles delivering on a longshot bet that paid off at +1,400.
Despite the increasing popularity of legal sports betting, the American Gaming Association estimates that a significant portion of bets on this year’s Super Bowl were placed with unregulated, offshore sites, bookies, and through social bets among friends and coworkers. Nevertheless, the trade group projected a record-breaking 50.4 million Americans would wager $16 billion on the game, doubling last year’s estimates.
Looking ahead, sportsbooks are already accepting wagers for next year’s Super Bowl, which will be played in Las Vegas for the first time. With the increasing legalization of sports betting and the impact of advanced digital platforms, the industry is poised for continued growth and innovation in the years to come.