Kentucky's sports betting catalog reveals betting options ahead of market launch

Kentucky's sports betting launch is just around the corner, and the state has now released its comprehensive sports betting catalog, detailing the various sports and betting options available to punters. Starting from September 7, sports enthusiasts in the Bluegrass State will be able to place bets in person at various retail locations.

Governor Andy Beshear stated: "Excitement for sports wagering is building as we are just one week away from opening retail locations and one month from opening mobile applications for sports wagering. Kentuckians now know where they can place a bet and the type of sporting events and wagers that licensees can offer."

“With the sports wagering catalog, bettors can start planning their bets,” explained Public Protection Cabinet Secretary and Sports Wagering Advisory Council member Ray Perry. 

The catalog offers a wide range of sports and leagues for betting, including US favorites NFL, MLB, NBA, WNBA, and NCAA. It also includes options such as eSports, boxing, the Olympics (including the trials), hockey, motorsports, and more. The complete catalog can be accessed on the KHRC website.

Gov. Beshear signed sports betting into law earlier this year

Bet types are listed in the catalog and can be defined in sports wagering administrative regulations. The available bet types include single-game bets, teaser bets, parlays, over-under bets, money line bets, pools, in-game wagering, in-play bets, proposition bets, and straight bets.

Following next week's retail launch, on September 28, select apps will allow sports bets starting at 6 a.m., providing bettors with more options and flexibility.

Kentucky's decision to legalize sports betting is expected to have a big financial impact, with an estimated annual revenue increase of $23 million for the state once the industry is fully operational. Currently, a tiered approach is in place to ensure a smooth transition and operational readiness before betting is fully underway.

Churchill Downs will be among the first to open in-person sportsbooks on September 7, with six locations set to welcome sports bettors, including Churchill Downs Racetrack.

Online sportsbook providers like BetMGM, bet365, Caesars, DraftKings, and Circa Sports have partnered with local establishments to offer other in-person sports betting options.

Additionally, Kentucky residents can look forward to online sports betting, set to go live on September 28. Churchill Downs, in partnership with Kambi, will provide online access to three sportsbooks: Fanatics Sportsbook, FanDuel, and Penn Sports Interactive's ESPN Bet.

Each of the state's nine horse racing tracks can partner with up to three online service providers, with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission approving eight initial online sportsbook brands.