Evoke postpones SI Casino and Sportsbook closure in Michigan to early 2025 amid broader U.S. market exit

Evoke Gaming, the parent company of Sports Illustrated (SI) Casino and Sportsbook, has delayed its planned shutdown in Michigan from late 2024 to the first quarter of 2025. This shift is part of Evoke’s decision to exit the entire U.S. business-to-consumer (B2C) gaming market, with a full departure now expected early next year, including operations in Colorado, New Jersey, and Virginia.

The extension provides SI Casino a few more months in Michigan, a market it has struggled to penetrate effectively since rebranding from TwinSpires to Sports Illustrated earlier this year. The brand consistently ranked at the bottom of Michigan’s 15 licensed online casinos, with monthly revenue falling short of $1 million from June to September 2024.

Evoke cited low revenue and market challenges as reasons behind its exit, although no specific explanation was provided for the delay.

Evoke’s Q3 2024 trading report confirmed this timeline, stating: “Conclusion of sale of New Jersey and Virginia businesses with a full exit from U.S. B2C now expected in Q1 2025 with the sale of Colorado and Michigan.” The trading report also noted Evoke’s return to growth in the third quarter, with revenue rising by 3%, thanks to robust performance in markets such as Italy and Spain.

Despite the anticipated departure, SI Casino remains operational, offering its range of slots, table games, and live dealer options for the time being. A new games section, featuring holiday-themed slots like “Santa Spins” and “Snowy Secrets,” was recently added. The sportsbook also continues to run with active betting lines for both college football and the NFL.

SI’s exit from Michigan will free up a valuable online casino and sportsbook license, opening possibilities for new entrants. The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) caps operators at 15, so the SI vacancy is likely to attract interest.

Industry rumors suggest that Hard Rock, which recently acquired 888 Holdings’ U.S. assets, could be eyeing Michigan as its next potential market. However, according to the MGCB, Hard Rock would need to apply for a new license to operate.

If Hard Rock decides against entering Michigan, other operators may seek to capitalize on the opening. This year, Caesars took advantage of a similar opportunity by acquiring WynnBet’s license and rebranding it as Horseshoe Casino. However, due to its current presence in Michigan, Caesars is unlikely to pursue another license in the state.