Kambi Group has signed a multi-channel sportsbook agreement with Oak Lawn Racing Casino Resort in Arkansas, USA.
Under the deal, Kambi will provide direct, on-site and online sportsbook solutions to Thoroughbred racetracks and casinos.
Kambi will support Oak Lawn by launching an online sportsbook business under the “Oak Lawn Sports” brand, subject to the passage of relevant legislation by the State of Arkansas. Online gambling of any kind is not yet legal in the state.
In addition, Kambi will continue to provide retail sports betting solutions to Oaklawn. The venue has been offering sports betting through Kambi’s retail sportsbook since last year, a new multi-channel deal that will replace the existing deal.
“Oak Lawn has been one of Arkansas’ most trusted brands for over 100 years and we are excited to offer our loyal customers even more great amenities with our highly anticipated mobile betting platform.
Kristian Nylén, co-founder and CEO of Kambi, said:
“Kambi’s advanced technology combined with Oak Lawn’s reputation as one of the best thoroughbred tracks and casinos in the US makes this a compelling sports betting proposition.”
Earlier this year, the Arkansas Joint Budget Board approved a set of rules for mobile sports betting in the state from the Arkansas Horse Racing Commission. A rule classifying online sports betting as a permitted form of casino gaming in Arkansas had already been approved by the Subcommittee on Rules Review.
The rule removes the requirement that a casino employee must appear in person before placing a bet, allowing sports betting patrons to bet online instead.
Casinos that may be licensed to bet on sports may partner with sports betting vendors to offer online wagering, but the vendor may not receive more than 50% of the proceeds.
Licensees are permitted to launch up to two online brands, all of which must “prominently display the name of the affiliated casino licensee.”
Sports betting is taxed like all other games, with gross gaming earnings up to $150 million annually taxed at 13% and earnings above this threshold at 20%.
