Connecticut: Sportech launches retail sports betting at three bars, other seven to follow

As the latest operator to enter the newly formed Connecticut sports betting market, Sportech opened this week with three venues in sports bars across the state, as announced by the company on Monday.

After unsuccessfully applying for a sports betting license in Connecticut, the technology firm agreed on a 10-year exclusivity deal with the Connecticut Lottery Corporation to offer its sports wagering via the lottery. 

Under the terms of the agreement, Sportech Venues Ltd, in conjunction with CLC’s sportsbook provider Rush Street Interactive, will deliver sports betting across its retail estate while promoting CLC’s online and mobile channel. 

After a seven-day soft launch, Sportech can now start with its operations in three flagship sports bars in Stamford, Bradley and New Haven. Seven more venues are expected to be added through the next 15 days. 

Stamford's Bobby V.

In an official press release, Sportech CEO Andrew Lindley said: “The demand for sports betting has been around for many years now and following a successful soft launch we are delighted to be offering it to our customers. This is a significant step forward for our Connecticut business and further strengthens our relationship with the State’s gaming arm, CLC; and with Rush Street Interactive who are CLCs sportsbook provider”. 

“Customer interest in sports betting continues to grow significantly in the US and we look forward to being a part of the  story and to working with our partners and welcoming a new set of customers to our venues”, he added. 

The Connecticut Lottery Corporation, Rush Street Interactive  and Sportech announced Monday October 25 the official launch of in-person sports betting at the first of 15 PlaySugarHouse retail sportsbooks in Connecticut. Players have been able to place bets at Sports Haven in New Haven since. 

Rush Street Interactive and the Connecticut Lottery had already started their operations in the state back on October 13, when PlaySugarHouse had its soft launch of online sports wagering through its app. For a week, PlaySugarHouse provided its service to a limited 750-account audience across Connecticut, having its full launch on October 19 after a successful performance during that “trial” week.