The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe has joined forces with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe in a legal dispute with the state of Colorado. Both tribes claim they have been unfairly denied access to the online sports betting market, an economic opportunity they argue was guaranteed under long-standing agreements with the state. They are now seeking legal recourse to ensure their rights are upheld.
Tribal Leaders Call for Justice
Chairman Manuel Heart of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe expressed deep frustration with the state’s actions, emphasizing, “The state must fulfill its obligations to our Tribes as outlined in agreements and federal law. This injustice leaves us no choice but to pursue legal action.” He highlighted the economic setbacks this exclusion has caused for the tribes.
Southern Ute Indian Tribe Chairman Melvin J. Baker echoed this sentiment, stating, “Enough is enough. This unfair treatment has persisted for too long. We demand that the state correct this situation immediately.”
Blocked from the Online Sports Betting Market
The crux of the issue lies in the tribes’ exclusion from Colorado’s online sports betting market, despite federal and state agreements allowing them to engage in gaming activities. These agreements, which have been in place for decades, explicitly permit the tribes to conduct the same types of gaming that are available to others in the state.
When Colorado voters approved Proposition DD in 2019, online sports betting became legal, opening up new economic opportunities. However, both tribes argue that despite these legal allowances, they have been unjustly blocked from entering the market, while private operators have benefited since 2020.
Taxation Dispute at the Center
A major sticking point in the conflict is the state’s inability to tax tribal gaming revenue, which is exempt under federal law. Tribal gaming profits must be used to support government functions and the welfare of tribal members. This has caused tension, as Colorado has continued to prevent the tribes from fully participating in online sports betting, citing concerns about taxation.
While the state has had opportunities to address this issue, such as introducing a ballot measure in 2024, it has failed to take action. This contrasts with states like Kansas, which quickly amended its laws to allow tribal participation in online sports betting after initially excluding them.
Seeking a Legal Resolution
After years of unsuccessful negotiations, the Ute tribes are now turning to the federal courts. They are asking for an injunction that will allow them to access the online sports betting market, as promised under their agreements with the state. Both tribes remain hopeful that the court will side with them, ensuring that they receive the economic opportunities they are legally entitled to.
William Hill has secured a headline sponsorship for all horse racing fixtures at Dundalk Stadium from September 27th to April 11th. This partnership encompasses 37 fixtures, with races held on Wednesdays and Fridays. The agreement includes sponsorship of prestigious events such as the Listed Diamond Stakes and the Group 3 Mercury Stakes, races that have seen victories from notable horses like Take Cover and Caspian Prince in previous years.
As part of the sponsorship, William Hill’s brand will be prominently displayed throughout Dundalk Stadium, from the starting stalls to the winning post. The company is also enhancing its presence in Irish horse racing by offering Top Price Guarantee offers for all its Dundalk race meetings.
Andrew McCleave, Head of Marketing for Ireland at William Hill, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that William Hill takes pride in offering competitive prices on horse racing. Lisa O’Connor, Sales and Marketing Manager at Dundalk Stadium welcomed the partnership, emphasizing the mutual benefits and the positive impact on the atmosphere at Dundalk Stadium.
Racing TV’s ‘The Friday Club’ Sponsorship
In addition to the track sponsorship, William Hill will sponsor Racing TV’s “The Friday Club,” a weekly racing show popular among horse racing enthusiasts. The program will feature contributions from William Hill ambassadors, alongside Racing TV personalities such as Fran Berry and Kevin O’Ryan.
Futurity Trophy Sponsorship at Doncaster
William Hill is returning to sponsor the Group 1 William Hill Futurity Trophy at Doncaster Racecourse, scheduled for October 26th. This event marks the final Group 1 race of the British Flat season and has a history of producing notable champions. Auguste Rodin, the 2022 winner, went on to claim victories in both the Epsom Derby and Irish Derby in 2023.
Mark Walton, Racing Sponsorship Manager at William Hill, highlighted the company’s long-standing connection to the race they first sponsored in 1976. The event is a platform to showcase the next generation of racing stars.
Aidan O’Brien, known for his remarkable success in the Futurity Trophy with 11 victories, is expected to be a strong contender this year. His colt, The Lion in Winter, is currently favored to win.
Expanded Commitment to UK Racing
William Hill’s involvement in horse racing extends beyond the Futurity Trophy. The company is also backing the Cheltenham Showcase meeting, demonstrating its commitment to flat and jump racing.
David Leyden Dunbar, Director of Commercial Strategy & Partnerships at Arena Racing Company, welcomed William Hill’s return to sponsoring the Futurity Trophy, emphasizing the race’s importance in showcasing talented two-year-olds.
These sponsorship deals at Dundalk Stadium and Doncaster Racecourse highlight William Hill’s substantial investment in the future of horse racing across Ireland and the UK.
Armenia-based TotoGaming, which launched its operations in Romania earlier this year, has struck a significant deal with one of the country’s top football clubs. The betting company announced a two-year partnership with CFR Cluj, a powerhouse in Romanian soccer known for its multiple championship titles.
This collaboration, set to run through the 2025/26 season, represents TotoGaming’s inaugural sports partnership in Romania, signaling the company’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in the country’s sports and betting landscape.
Merging of Expertise
While TotoGaming is new to Romania, it brings two decades of experience from its operations in Armenia, where it has backed several football clubs. CFR Cluj, with its rich history spanning a century and impressive track record of success, offers a perfect platform for TotoGaming to connect with Romanian sports enthusiasts.
The CEO of TotoGaming expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the alignment of values between the two entities. He emphasized their shared commitment to sports development and the promotion of an active lifestyle, praising CFR Cluj’s championship pedigree.
Strategic Market Expansion
This football partnership is just one piece of TotoGaming’s broader strategy to gain a foothold in Romania. The company has been actively expanding its offerings since its entry into the market. Recently, it broadened its online casino portfolio through a collaboration with a well-known game developer, introducing new slot games to Romanian players.
Enhancing the Betting Experience
For Romanian sports betting fans, this partnership could herald exciting developments. Such collaborations typically lead to enhanced betting options, potentially including exclusive promotions tied to CFR Cluj’s performances. It may also spark increased interest in the Romanian football league among bettors, as they gain more insights into one of its top teams.
A Measured Approach to Growth
While this deal may not grab headlines like some larger international sponsorships, it represents a calculated move by TotoGaming to embed itself in the Romanian sports culture. For sports bettors, it promises a more engaging experience with local football.
As sports and betting continue to intertwine, partnerships like this one between TotoGaming and CFR Cluj aim to strike a balance between promoting the sport and encouraging responsible betting practices. Fans and bettors alike can anticipate a more immersive football experience, with the potential for unique betting opportunities tied to one of Romania’s most successful clubs.
Illinois Racing Board Greenlights Major Acquisition
Accel Entertainment is making waves in the Illinois gaming scene with its recent acquisition of FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing, formerly known as Fairmount Park. The Illinois Racing Board approved the purchase, marking Accel’s first step into the Thoroughbred racing industry. Along with the acquisition, Accel plans to open a temporary casino by the time of the 2025 Kentucky Derby.
Major Investment at Collinsville Facility
Accel’s entry into the Thoroughbred sector involves more than just buying the Collinsville, Illinois-based track for $35 million. The gaming company is set to invest an additional $85-$95 million in constructing a temporary casino, as well as a permanent gaming facility. This development will include upgrades to the racetrack’s infrastructure, with improvements to security, maintenance, and general operations.
According to Accel’s president of U.S. Gaming, Mark Phelan, the firm is dedicated to elevating the track’s standards. “We are very humble about what we’re going to do here,” he stated during a presentation to the Illinois Racing Board.
The temporary casino, pending further approvals, will likely occupy the current facility, featuring around 200 slot machines and several table games. Long-term, Accel plans to build a more extensive permanent casino, offering expanded gaming options.
Commitment to Racing Industry and Community
In addition to the casino project, Accel has pledged a $5 million purse guarantee for the 2025 racing season, aimed at boosting the quality of the races. “We are seeking to improve the overall quality of racing for owners, trainers, and fans in support of the Illinois horse industry,” Phelan said.
The acquisition also brings economic promise to southern Illinois and nearby St. Louis. Collinsville Mayor Jeff Stehman has expressed optimism about the development’s potential to drive local growth, providing jobs and revitalizing the area.
Hawthorne Race Course Lags Behind
While Accel makes swift progress in Collinsville, the situation at Hawthorne Race Course appears stalled. The track, which began demolition in 2019 following the state’s racino approval, has faced delays in securing financing for its casino. Tim Carey, president of Hawthorne, reassured the public that negotiations are in the final stages, though he couldn’t provide further details.
“We remain committed to redeveloping Hawthorne and revitalizing Illinois horse racing,” Carey stated, though construction timelines remain uncertain.
With the racing calendar for 2025 now approved, Illinois continues to maintain its position as a hub for Thoroughbred and harness racing. Both facilities will have to navigate the pressures and expectations of fans and stakeholders as they work toward completing their respective casino projects.
Introduction of New Sports Betting Bill
A recently introduced federal bill, spearheaded by Congressman Paul Tonko and US Senator Richard Blumenthal, is stirring controversy in the sports betting world. The “Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet (SAFE Bet) Act” aims to enforce stricter consumer protections and establish uniform standards across the sports betting industry in the US. However, the American Gaming Association (AGA) has expressed strong opposition, viewing the bill as an undue infringement on state authority.
Key Provisions of the SAFE Bet Act
The SAFE Bet Act sets minimum federal standards in three critical areas: advertising, affordability, and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). It mandates that all licensed sports betting operators comply with these standards, enforced through Department of Justice (DOJ) oversight. States wishing to run legal sports betting markets must first gain DOJ approval, proving that they meet the specified federal criteria.
One of the bill’s most significant measures includes a nationwide prohibition on sports betting, allowing exceptions only for DOJ-approved states. In addition, it places strict restrictions on sportsbook advertising, forbidding promotions between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. and during live sporting events. Bonuses and inducements are also banned under the proposed law.
Affordability and Consumer Protection
Further consumer protection measures include limits on the number of deposits players can make in a 24-hour period and mandatory affordability checks for high-value wagers. For instance, if a customer wishes to wager more than $1,000 in a day or $10,000 in a month, operators must first verify the customer’s financial standing. Credit card deposits are entirely prohibited to mitigate the risks of gambling-related debt.
The SAFE Bet Act also places restrictions on the use of AI within the industry. Sportsbooks would no longer be allowed to use AI to track individual gambling behavior, tailor offers to specific players, or create gambling products like microbets that incentivize frequent betting.
Congressmen’s Views on the Bill
Congressman Tonko emphasized the role of sports as a cherished American tradition, expressing concern that modern betting practices are turning every moment of a game into an opportunity for wagering. He stressed the importance of protecting individuals from the adverse effects of gambling addiction, which he said has led to devastating personal consequences for many. Senator Blumenthal echoed these sentiments, framing the bill as a public health measure designed to curb addiction and protect young people from predatory practices.
Impact on the Sports Betting Landscape
If passed, the SAFE Bet Act would take effect one year after its enactment. States with existing sports betting markets would have a one-year grace period to comply with the new regulations. The bill also tasks the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) with conducting a National Sports Betting Survey to assess the impact of sports betting and maintain a national self-exclusion list for problem gamblers.
Industry Backlash and Concerns
Despite its focus on consumer protection, the bill has faced sharp criticism from industry stakeholders. Chris Cylke, Senior Vice President of Government Relations for the American Gaming Association, labeled the federal oversight as unnecessary and overbearing. He argued that state regulators have already made significant progress in creating safe and responsible betting environments, with billions in tax revenue supporting local economies.
