Caesars signs NY betting partnership with tribal operator
Caesars Entertainment is set to bring sports betting to three casinos in New York after partnering with the Oneida Indian Nation.
The deal is reliant on sports betting regulations being passed by legislators in the state, and ratification by the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC).
Under the terms of the deal, Caesars would have a presence at Turning Stone Resort Casino (pictured), Yellow Brick Road Casino and Point Place Casino, with each venue close to the city of Syracuse, the fifth most-populous city in the state.
Each casino would open a betting venue under the ‘The Lounge with Caesars Sports’ brand in 2019 should regulations finally be agreed in the state.
“We are eagerly awaiting the NIGC’s review of this innovative new partnership involving a licensing and branding arrangement,” said Christian Stuart, Caesars’ executive vice president gaming and interactive entertainment.
“The Oneida Indian Nation has already established Turning Stone as the preeminent New York gaming destination, which makes the property and its sister casinos fitting partners for Caesars.
“When it comes to partnerships, Caesars seeks collaborators who share our commitment to exceeding guest expectations, and we are confident that ‘The Lounge with Caesars Sports’ at Turning Stone, Yellow Brick Road Casino and Point Place Casino will be a top sports betting destination in New York.”
Legislation that would empower the state gaming division to issue regulations has yet to be passed in New York. Senator John Bonacic, now retired, attempted to progress a bill last year that ultimately failed, however Senator Joe Addabbo, his replacement as the chairman of the Committee on Racing, Gaming and Wagering, has already expressed plans to introduce a new bill in the coming legislative session.
As things stand, when betting is regulated it will be available at four approved commercial casinos – Resorts World Catskills, the Del Lago, Tioga Downs and Rivers Casino – and at tribal casinos, under the terms of their compacts with the state.
Each of the four commercial casinos have already partnered with sportsbooks. Empire Resorts' Resorts World Catskills has agreed a deal with Bet365; Del Lago will work with DraftKings; Tioga Downs with FanDuel and Rivers with Rush Street Interactive.
Speaking about the Caesars deal, Ray Halbritter, Oneida Indian Nation Representative and Nation Enterprises CEO, said: “We are pleased to be joining forces with this world-renowned gaming leader.
“Like Oneida Nation Enterprises, Caesars has built its business on exceptional service, as well as a dedication to constant innovation. These shared values create the perfect synergy for a meaningful long-term partnership.”