Kentucky Eyes Sports Betting Expansion Before 2025 Derby

A Timely Meeting

The agenda highlighted a “request for approval of sports wagering catalogue additions and clarifications,” though specifics remained undisclosed.

With the 151st Kentucky Derby set for May 3 at Churchill Downs, the timing sparked speculation about potential impacts on the iconic race.

Kentucky’s $2.8 billion online betting handle in 2024, per KHRGC, underscores the stakes, with 98% of bets placed via mobile platforms like FanDuel, per Covers.com.

The state’s betting market already offers a solid range, covering all four major pro leagues, NCAA events, boxing, esports, professional cornhole, and horse racing. Bettors can place same-game parlays, singles, over/unders, and prop bets.

The meeting’s focus on catalog additions could introduce new sports or wager types, possibly NFL Draft markets.

Mobile Betting Dominates

Mobile wagering, requiring partnerships with one of Kentucky’s nine horse racing tracks, drives the market. Despite Churchill Downs closing its retail sportsbook in February 2025, race-goers can still bet in-person at mutuel windows or self-service machines during the Derby.

Mobile apps like DraftKings and BetMGM handled 98% of the $3.5 billion wagered from September 2023 to December 2024. This shift has boosted TV viewership, with fans betting live on global events.

The KHRGC’s push for catalog updates aligns with Kentucky’s $283.6 million in sportsbook winnings since legalization in September 2023. Adding markets like niche sports or expanded props could further grow the $210 million Derby handle set in 2024, a record.

However, any changes are unlikely to directly alter Derby betting, which focuses on win, place, show, and exotic wagers like exacta. The meeting’s outcomes may instead enhance year-round offerings, keeping Kentucky competitive in the $26.8 billion U.S. betting industry.