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TwinSpires is initiating its exit from the online sports betting and internet gaming sector.
TwinSpires made a statement in late February, declaring its decision to depart from both platforms in order to prioritize its horse racing operations.
The online operator plans to remove progressive jackpot games from Michigan on July 31, although the exact timeline for its exit remains unclear.
TwinSpires is taking the initial stride towards its departure, bringing Michigan one step closer to welcoming a fresh online operator.
Island Resort & Casino is currently in the process of finding a new partner to replace TwinSpires, although no official announcement has been made yet. However, it seems that progress is being made in this regard.
What’s happening on July 31
On July 31, TwinSpires notified its users via email about the removal of the following progressive jackpot games from Michigan.
- Divine Fortune
- Mercy of the Gods
- Imperial Riches
- Vegas Night Life
- Pork Knox
- Scarab Link
- Deluxe Big Prize Bubble Gum
- Crazy Money II
- Fate of the 8
- Power Wheel – Ignite the Heat
- Roller Wheel Jungle Roll
- Roller Wheel Money Roll
- Sky Dragons
The game will be taken down if a progressive jackpot is won before July 31.
If the progressive jackpot does not reach before July 31, TwinSpires will reimburse the individual player contributions to their accounts.
TwinSpires continues to run its online sportsbook and casino in Michigan.
TwinSpires packing up
TwinSpires revealed its decision to withdraw from online gambling in Michigan towards the end of February this year.
Instead of diverting its attention to other areas, TwinSpires will prioritize its separate application for horse racing.
On January 5, 2021, TwinSpires formed a partnership with Island Resort & Casino to serve as its online platform provider, following its rebranding from BetAmerica.
TwinSpires hasn’t emerged as a significant player among the major operators since the launch of online sports betting and casinos in Michigan.
With a total of slightly over $26 million, it secures the 10th position in the historical sports betting handle rankings. TwinSpires, on the other hand, stands at the 12th spot in Michigan’s all-time online casino revenue, amounting to $14.4 million.
Who will replace TwinSpires in Michigan?
At present, every online partnership slot with Michigan’s casino operators has been filled.
New companies should be eager to seize the opportunity to enter Michigan’s flourishing market with the TwinSpires exit.
Island Resort & Casino, operated by the Hannahville Indian Community, responded to our inquiry about a potential new partner by saying, “There is no update at the moment!”
There are various interpretations of “Yet!” but it most probably suggests that a new partner is being sought after. Island Resort & Casino has had ample time, four months to be exact, since TwinSpires’ announced departure, to receive proposals from potential partners.
In February, we assessed 10 potential replacements. Among them, a particular candidate stands out as a strong contender due to its partnership. Additionally, a new possibility has emerged, boasting a strong affiliation with Michigan, which was not previously included in the list.
SI Sportsbook
Sports Illustrated’s sportsbook has already made its mark in Colorado and Virginia, making it a potential contender in the state of Michigan.
SI has formed a partnership with 888Sport, a renowned European sports betting brand that is already authorized in New Jersey.
SI Sportsbook has not submitted an application or obtained a license to operate from the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that 888 Atlantic Limited is an authorized supplier in Michigan.
Ocean Casino
In February, Ocean Casino was not among the 10 potential suitors we considered due to its limited popularity nationwide. However, it is currently operational in New Jersey through a partnership with its land-based casino located in Atlantic City.
The Ilitch Organization, which holds 50% ownership, creates a strong Michigan connection for it. The Ilitch family, well-known in Detroit’s sports scene, is behind this connection.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has stated that Ocean Casino has yet to submit a licensing application in Michigan.
