Hard Rock Bet expands to Illinois with online sports betting app

Hard Rock Digital and Hard Rock Casino Rockford announced the launch of the Hard Rock Bet online sports betting app in Illinois on Monday, marking the product's entry into one of the largest sports betting markets in the U.S. The company also revealed that in-person wagering will begin on August 29 at the soon-to-be-opened sportsbook at Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

The new app offers Illinois bettors a variety of options, including pre-game and live betting, futures, and same-game parlays, along with a free rewards program. The launch coincides with Hard Rock Bet's fall campaign, "Roll With Us," which aims to attract a wide range of players to its user-friendly platform. New users in Illinois can also take advantage of a signup offer, receiving $100 in Bonus Bets after placing their first cash bet of at least $5.

"This is shaping up to be a monumental football season for Hard Rock Bet," said Marlon Goldstein, Executive Managing Director & CEO for Hard Rock Digital. "We’re thrilled to be delivering the unique Hard Rock Bet mobile experience to players throughout Illinois."

Hard Rock Casino Rockford, located just two hours west of Chicago, will offer a comprehensive entertainment experience once opened. Spanning 175,000 square feet, the casino will house 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games, a poker room, and six restaurants. The sportsbook will feature five betting kiosks, three betting windows, and an array of TVs, food, and drink options.

"Sports betting was always part of our holistic plan for Rockford," said Geno Iafrate, President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford. "The launch of Hard Rock Bet on mobile and in-person sports betting is another milestone for the Hard Rock brand in Illinois, one that adds to the complete array of entertainment options for our guests."

The Illinois sports betting market is among the most lucrative in the U.S., with nearly $848 million wagered in June, second only to New York. Since the state's online sports betting began four years ago, more than $36 billion has been bet on sports, generating $3 billion in revenue and contributing over $457 million in taxes to the state. 

With its Illinois debut, Hard Rock Bet joins a competitive field of operators, including FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, and others.