RSI debuts new BetRivers retail sportsbook in Maryland in partnership with Bingo World

Rush Street Interactive (RSI) opened its BetRivers retail sportsbook in Maryland on Monday, in partnership with Bingo World, featuring 12 self-service kiosks and three over-the-counter machines on a 3,000-square-foot facility. 

The opening was preceded by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by former player for the Baltimore Ravens Qadry Ismail; BetRivers B2B services director Adam Glass; and Maryland state Senator Pamela Beidle, among others. The ribbon was cut by Randy Clemens, president of Bingo World. 

“We are so excited and honored to be the first operator outside of a casino to offer Maryland residents a retail sportsbook," said Clemens. “Together with our partners at RSI, we can offer bettors a world-class in-person sports betting experience at the BetRivers sportsbook and lounge."

Rush Street Interactive $RSI, launches in-person sports betting at the BetRivers Sportsbook at Bingo World (Baltimore, MD). Super Bowl Champion and Former Baltimore Ravens Qadry "the Missile" Ismail Places First Bethttps://t.co/Yk2y5RT5RN pic.twitter.com/plySjNgAVO

— Rush Street Interactive (@RSInteractive_) August 1, 2022

Ismail, who placed the first bet, is considered a local sports hero who led the Baltimore Ravens to win Super Bowl XXXV. “This new sportsbook is a huge win for avid sports fans in Baltimore," he said. “Betting has become such a big part of the sports world now Ravens Fans and other bettors can come here to be entertained and enjoy the wide variety of betting options BetRivers will offer."

The BetRivers sportsbook at Bingo World is described as offering a full array of entertainment and wagering options, featuring a lounge area with 32 theater-style seats, a bar with seating and high tops, 21 hi-def video screens that surround the space airing multiple sporting events concurrently and streaming BetRivers odds boards. 

Richard Schwartz, CEO of RSI, added: “We are thrilled to partner with Bingo World to launch the BetRivers retail sportsbook in the state of Maryland. With Bingo World’s brand recognition in the Baltimore area, the easy-to-access venue, and RSI’s award-winning products and services, we look forward to delivering convenient and exciting sports betting options to retail customers and are excited about building trust and loyalty as they become familiar with our award-winning product."

Richard Schwartz, CEO of RSI

Retail and online sports betting were both legalized in Maryland last year, after state governor Larry Hogan signed the bill to approve the move. This was after voters backed sports betting during the state referendum in November 2020. 

Retail sports betting became available in December 2020, but online wagering has not yet been launched. In June, Gov. Hogan harshly criticized the state licensing committee and demanded online sports betting be made available ahead of the 2022 NFL season in September.