Sports betting revenue was down 69% from October, when the casinos earned record revenue of $7.6m. November handle fell 46% from the prior month to $25m.
The precipitous drop in handle and revenue was the result of a Covid-19 related casino closure order implemented on 17 Nov lasting through 8 Dec. Even before the closure, casinos had been operating at just 15% capacity since reopening in July.
Motorcity Casino’s sportsbook led the way in revenue for the second consecutive month by earning $1.1m in revenue, followed by Greektown Casino ($645,000) and MGM Grand Detroit ($561,000).
MGM Grand Detroit finished last in revenue despite bringing in the most handle at $10.5m. The sportsbook’s high handle and low hold was likely the result of extensive promotions.
Detroit’s commercial casinos were set to reopen Wednesday, which should give the retail sportsbooks some much-needed life.
Michigan is still working on licensing and launching online sports betting. The latest suggested start date is mid-January, which would put the state on track for sports wagering ahead of the Super Bowl.
