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When you explore any authorized Michigan sportsbook, you’ll come across numerous soccer events available for betting. Nonetheless, keen observers will spot the glaring omission of the National Independent Soccer Association, indicating the absence of Detroit City FC in the state’s vibrant soccer scene.
There is a rather intriguing reason behind this.
Licensed operators may find events in the league and involving the club permissible, depending on their interpretation of MI law and sports betting regulations. The absence of these operators seems to be due to a difference of opinion.
A catch-22 for wagering on Detroit City FC
There is some room for interpretation when it comes to the rules in Michigan regarding permissible events.
Bets can only be placed on the top-tier leagues of each sport, not on lower-level developmental leagues. For instance, you can bet on MLB games but not on MiLB games. Similarly, NBA bets are allowed, but NBA G-League bets are not. NHL bets are permitted, while AHL bets are not.
However, the challenging aspect of this is that the NISA is not considered a “feeder league” as it is not affiliated with any Major League Soccer club, which is the premier men’s league in North America. While there are instances of players from the NISA moving on to sign with MLS clubs, this is not the intended progression. Nevertheless, sportsbooks in different regions, like Illinois, do accept bets on NISA events.
The term “independent” is actually included in the league’s name. While it may not possess top-tier status, it also cannot be considered solely a developmental league. As a result, it could potentially be eligible for betting.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board appears to have a receptive attitude towards the matter, if that holds any significance.
According to Mary Kay Bean, the communications specialist for the MGCB, she expressed the following thoughts on the matter:
Operators and platform providers can submit requests to the MGCB for new leagues and wagers. These requests undergo a thorough review process to assess their compliance with the Lawful Sports Betting Act and relevant rules.
It appears that the board is implying they are patiently awaiting a licensee to ask the question. However, licensees seem to be hesitant and unwilling to ask until certain conditions are met.
Operators seem to have made up their minds
Playinmichigan contacted multiple Michigan online and retail sportsbook companies to inquire if they have sought approval from the board for NISA betting or have any future plans to do so. The feedback received from all companies was unanimously negative, expressing pessimism.
“In Michigan, the National Independent Soccer Association is not authorized for betting purposes. For inquiries regarding this matter, it is advisable to consult the regulators, as we provide whatever assistance we can.”
Regrettably, the National Independent Soccer Association does not have approval in Michigan. Although I cannot verify whether we have sought approval for these markets, we adhere to the regulations imposed by state regulators.
For those observing from the outside, this concept may seem logical, considering it’s only lower-level soccer. However, Detroit City FC has amassed a devoted fan base in Metro Detroit, comprising individuals who are not easily accessible to sports betting operators involved in other conventional sports.
Detroit MLS team would be up for wagers on Day 1
It appears that the board is currently in anticipation of a request that may never be made, while the operators are hopeful for more favorable regulator language that may not actually happen. Therefore, the most practical course of action could be for soccer fans in Michigan to patiently await the arrival of MLS in their town.
In the past, there was a possibility of Detroit becoming an MLS expansion team. Towards the end of 2019, Detroit was considered a strong contender. However, with Sacramento recently withdrawing their bid, there is a chance that Detroit’s bid may resurface.
This season, fans of Detroit City FC might face disappointment as they may not have the opportunity to place bets on their beloved club at legal sportsbooks in Michigan.
The arrival of an MLS club in Detroit would undoubtedly result in increased promotion and visibility for soccer in Michigan, including its availability at sportsbooks throughout the state.
Betting on Detroit City FC appears to be overlooked until a change occurs.
Detroit City FC opens home slate May 1 (UPDATE THIS WITH LEGENDS CUP RESULT)
After securing two consecutive tournament-style NISA titles, Detroit City FC is currently riding high on their recent accomplishments. In early October, they claimed victory in the NISA Fall Championship, and most recently, they dominated the NISA Legends Cup spring tournament, defeating Chattanooga FC with an impressive 3-0 score.
On May 1, the home season of Detroit City FC commences with a match against the Maryland Bobcats. Spectators in the Detroit area can tune in to TV20, while CW channels across the state will also broadcast the game.
Historic Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck is where the club holds its home matches.
The Michigan Stars, based in Washington Township within Macomb County, are proud members of the NISA.
