The targeted launch date means Arizona online sportsbooks will be able to accept wagers in time for the season opener between the Dallas Cowboys and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who play at 8:20 p.m. EST September 9. The rest of the NFL begins games September 12 and 13.
Officials at the ADG began accepting sports betting applications July 26. The initial application period closes on August 9.
The ADG will then work through a five-day qualification evaluation period. The department will announce applicants who qualify for licensure on August 16.
An if-necessary second allocation evaluation period will occur from August 17-27, at which time any additional licenses will be announced.
On August 28, operators will be allowed to market to customers, who can create accounts beginning that date.
ADG will run an additional licensing period for allocated applicants from August 30 to September 8. The ADG also confirmed daily fantasy operators can launch on August 28.
Arizona allows up to 20 sportsbook operators, and at least eight operators have already announced market access agreements in the Grand Canyon State via pro sports entities or tribes. Those operators are: Bally Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet, Unibet and Wynn Bet.
BetMGM is the biggest operator yet to announce a partner.
A half dozen professional sports teams or leagues have announced deals that include the opening of a retail sportsbook. The Phoenix Suns are opening a FanDuel Sportsbook at Phoenix Suns Arena, while the Arizona Diamondbacks and Caesars have partnered for a sportsbook on the plaza adjacent to the team’s home stadium, Chase Field.
More deals are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
