Quick Summary of Online Sports Betting in Kentucky
| Legal Status: | ✅ Legal |
| Launch Date: | September 2023 |
| Regulating Body: | Kentucky Horse Racing Commission |
| Number of Licensed Betting Sites: | 8 |
| Legal Online Sportsbooks: | Bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, Circa, DraftKings, ESPN BET, Fanatics, FanDuel |
| Minimum Sports Betting Age: | 18+ (most operators require 21+) |
| Betting Restrictions: | No high school sports |
| Tax Rate on Winnings: | 14.25% online, 9.75% retail |
Kentucky Online Sports Betting Updates
-
September 4, 2025
– Governor Andy Beshear highlighted two years of legal sports wagering in Kentucky and expanded responsible-gambling resources during a public update.
-
August 19, 2025
– The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission held a special meeting that included approval items for updates to the state’s sports-wagering catalog.
-
July 28, 2025
– Prime Sportsbook launched online in Kentucky (its third United States state), partnering with Churchill Downs; it became the ninth active online sportsbook in the Commonwealth.
-
July 25, 2025
– Circa Sports soft-opened a new retail sportsbook at The Mint Gaming Hall at Kentucky Downs, billed as the largest sportsbook in Kentucky.
-
April 23, 2025
– The sports-wagering event catalog was updated (for example, additional combat sports and motorsports), reflecting Kentucky’s periodic expansion of approved betting markets.
-
February 11, 2025
– The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission approved additions and clarifications to the sports-wagering catalog during its public meeting.
Best Kentucky Sportsbooks Reviewed
Kentucky bettors have access to a strong lineup of eight licensed sportsbooks, each offering its own unique features, promotions, and betting options. Whether you’re looking for deep live betting markets, competitive odds, or a standout rewards program, there’s a platform to match your betting style. Below, we highlight the best options currently available in the Bluegrass State:
| KY Sportbooks | Best For |
| Bet365 | Competitive odds & display personalization |
| BetMGM | Flexibility with Edit My Bet |
| Caesars | Ongoing promos & Caesars Rewards |
| FanDuel | NFL odds & same-game parlays |
| DraftKings | Live betting & betting pools |
| Fanatics | FanCash rewards program |
| ESPN Bet | Sports media integration & market variety |
Bet365 KY Sportsbook
Pros & Cons
- Competitive Odds
- Personalized Display Options
- Two Welcome Bonus Choices
- Interface can Feel Outdated
Bet365’s Kentucky debut came via a partnership with Sandy’s Racing & Gaming, bringing one of the world’s most recognized sportsbooks to the Bluegrass State. Known for consistently sharp odds, the platform offers a clean interface with customizable display options. Its daily odds boosts span both major and niche sports, giving bettors plenty of variety.
Kentucky sports fans can find targeted promotions for popular regional teams like the Cincinnati Bengals, Tennessee Titans, and Louisville Cardinals. Combined with its global reputation, Bet365 offers a reliable and feature-rich option for Kentucky bettors.
Editor’s Note:
Bet365 stands out for those who want market-leading odds and a personalized experience. The ability to tailor your display layout means you can set it up exactly how you like, which is ideal for serious bettors who value efficiency.
Read our
Bet365 Sportsbook review
here.
Bet $5 & Get $200 in bonus bets
Minimum $10 deposit required. Minimum odds -500 of greater. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&CS, time limits and exclusions apply. This Referral Code is used for marketing/tracking purposes only. $10 minimum deposit. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. Available in app only. Max. prize, game restrictions, time limits and T&Cs apply. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL OR TEXT 1-800-GAMBLER (AZ/CO/IL/IN/KS/KY/LA/MD/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ (18+ KY). Must be present in AZ/CO/IA/IL/IN/KS/KY/LA (select parishes)/MD/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA.
BetMGM KY Sportsbook
Pros & Cons
- Edit My Bet Feature
- Wide Sports Coverage
- Trusted MGM Resorts Brand
BetMGM, partnered with Sandy’s Racing & Gaming, delivers a polished sportsbook with a balance of major league coverage and niche markets like darts and snooker. The standout Edit My Bet feature lets users adjust their wagers after placing them, offering flexibility if game conditions change mid-play.
Local bettors often see boosted markets for Kentucky Wildcats basketball, Louisville Cardinals football, and nearby NFL teams like the Bengals and Colts. BetMGM’s strong choice of betting options makes it a good all-around choice for Kentucky players.
Editor’s Note:
If in-play betting is your thing, BetMGM’s Edit My Bet tool is a powerful way to adjust your exposure on the fly. This flexibility sets it apart from many competitors.
Read our
BetMGM Sportsbook review
here.
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA) 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). Rewards are non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. See BetMGM.com for Terms. US promotional offers not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.
Caesars KY Sportsbook
Pros & Cons
- Caesars Rewards Program
- Frequent Odds Boosts
- Strong Brand Reputation
Caesars partners with Red Mile Racing to bring a bonus-heavy sportsbook experience to Kentucky. The Caesars Rewards program lets bettors earn credits redeemable at Caesars hotels and casinos, adding extra value for regular play. The app’s odds boosts and parlay promos are a constant draw for active users.
For Kentucky locals, Caesars often features specials tied to marquee events like the Kentucky Derby and Louisville vs. Kentucky basketball games.
Editor’s Note:
Caesars is one of the most promo-driven sportsbooks in the state. If you like stacking loyalty rewards with odds boosts, this is a must-try.
Read our
Caesars Sportsbook review
here.
Bet $1, Double your Winnings on your Next 20 Wagers. Up to $25 Max Bet Per Boost
21+ New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet after registration must qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,000. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Gambling Problem? 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
FanDuel KY Sportsbook
Pros & Cons
- User-Friendly App
- Competitive NFL Odds
- Same Game Parlay Builder
- Customer Support Can Be Lackluster
FanDuel, partnered with Churchill Downs, offers one of the smoothest betting apps on the market. Its Same Game Parlay tool is a hit during NFL season, especially for Bengals and Titans matchups. Competitive lines and fast payouts make it a go-to choice for football fans.
In Kentucky, FanDuel also leans into college basketball, with regular boosts on Wildcats and Cardinals games. For those who enjoy live betting, its clean interface keeps wagers quick and simple.
Editor’s Note:
FanDuel excels at combining speed, simplicity, and strong football odds. The SGP builder is one of the best for customizing NFL and NBA bets.
Read our
FanDuel Sportsbook review
here.
DraftKings KY Sportsbook
Pros & Cons
- Extensive Live Betting
- Betting Pools Feature
- DFS Integration
Partnered with Cumberland Run, DraftKings offers one of the deepest live betting menus in Kentucky. Its unique betting pools allow you to compete tournament-style against other users, and its DFS integration means you can switch between fantasy lineups and wagers in seconds.
Promotions often highlight in-state college basketball, with boosts for Kentucky and Louisville games, plus local interest in MLB’s Reds and Cardinals.
Editor’s Note:
DraftKings is perfect for multitaskers who want both DFS and sportsbook betting in a single platform. Its live betting depth is among the best in the market.
Read our
DraftKings Sportsbook review
here.
New Customers: Bet $5+ Get $300 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins + 3 Months of League Pass On Us!
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new DraftKings customer. Must register new DraftKings account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to get 1 promo code to redeem 3-month NBA League Pass subscription, complimentary of DraftKings, and get max. $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours) and stake removed from payout. Token expires 11/23/25. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. NBA League Pass: Subscription auto-renews monthly at then-current price (currently $16.99/mo); cancel anytime. Terms, restrictions, and eligibility requirements apply. Redeem League Pass by 12/19/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Addt’l terms: https://support.watch.nba.com/hc/en-us/articles/9165532876183-League-Pass-Terms-of-Use_. Offer ends 11/16/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
Fanatics KY Sportsbook
Pros & Cons
- FanCash Rewards
- Team Merchandise Integration
- Personalized Discover Page
- Some App Stability Issues
Partnered with Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel, Fanatics brings a unique twist to sports betting with its FanCash rewards program. Credits can be redeemed for bonus bets or official merchandise, appealing to sports fans who love their gear as much as their wagers.
Kentucky players can expect promos tied to major events like March Madness and the Kentucky Derby, as well as NFL specials for Bengals, Titans, and Colts games.
Editor’s Note:
Fanatics is ideal for bettors who also want tangible rewards in the form of team apparel, making it a fun crossover between fandom and betting.
Read our
Fanatics Sportsbook review
here.
Bet $50, Get $250 in FanCash
ESPN Bet KY Sportsbook
Pros & Cons
- Sports Media Integration
- Market Variety
- User-Friendly Layout
ESPN Bet, partnered with Ellis Park Racing & Gaming, blends betting markets with sports coverage, analysis, and highlights. Its interface is built for quick navigation while giving users access to deep stats and integrated content.
Kentucky bettors can find coverage-driven promos around big national events and SEC football matchups, appealing to fans of both Kentucky and Louisville programs.
Editor’s Note:
ESPN Bet is perfect for those who want betting and sports coverage in the same place. It’s a natural fit for fans who already follow ESPN content daily.
Read our
ESPN Bet Sportsbook review
here.
Bet $50, Get $250 in FanCash
Popular Sports to Bet on in Kentucky
Kentucky may not host a major professional franchise, but its sports fandom runs deep, especially for college basketball and horse racing. Local bettors also follow nearby NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL teams, creating a diverse betting landscape that blends regional pride with national sports action.
College Basketball
The University of Kentucky Wildcats and University of Louisville Cardinals are the crown jewels of Kentucky sports. Bettors flock to markets like point spreads, over/unders, and NCAA Tournament futures each season.
Saturdays in the fall center around Wildcats and Cardinals football. Moneylines, spreads, and win-total futures see strong handle, especially during conference play and rivalry games.
NFL
While there’s no NFL team in Kentucky, fans rally behind nearby franchises like the Cincinnati Bengals, Tennessee Titans, and Indianapolis Colts. Same Game Parlays and player props are especially popular during the season.
MLB
The Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals attract consistent betting interest during baseball season. Popular markets include run lines, totals, and pitcher strikeout props.
NBA
Kentucky’s hoops tradition extends to pro basketball, with fans often following the Indiana Pacers and Memphis Grizzlies. Player performance bets and live betting spike during the playoffs.
NHL
Hockey betting is driven by support for the Nashville Predators and St. Louis Blues, with moneylines and game totals leading the way.
Kentucky Sports Betting Legislation
Sports betting became legal in Kentucky with the passage of House Bill 551 in March 2023, ending years of failed attempts to bring regulated wagering to the Bluegrass State. The bill gave Kentucky’s nine licensed horse racing tracks the ability to host retail sportsbooks and partner with up to three online operators each, opening the door to as many as 27 online platforms in the future.
Retail betting launched on September 7, 2023, followed by online and mobile betting on September 28, 2023. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission regulates the industry, enforcing rules on age limits, licensing, taxation, and responsible gambling initiatives. Bettors must be physically located within the state to place wagers, and the law allows betting on both professional and collegiate sports, including in-state teams.
Kentucky Sports Betting Timeline
- March 31, 2023
- Governor Andy Beshear signs HB 551 into law, legalizing sports betting.
- June 28, 2023
- HB 551 takes effect, setting the stage for retail and online launches.
- July 10, 2023
- Regulators announce official launch dates: September 7 for retail, September 28 for online.
- September 7, 2023
- Retail sports betting launches statewide; Gov. Beshear places the first legal bet at Churchill Downs.
- September 28, 2023
- Online sports betting goes live, with eight licensed sportsbooks available at launch.
- April 1, 2024
- Circa Sportsbook launches in Kentucky, expanding the state’s operator list.
- 2024–2025
- State sees strong monthly handle reports, with additional brands exploring market entry.
Other Kentucky Betting Options
In addition to sports betting, Kentucky offers several other legal gambling options, many of which are deeply tied to the state’s long history with horse racing and gaming. From wagering on the Kentucky Derby to playing the state lottery, residents have a range of ways to place legal bets.
Kentucky Lottery
The Kentucky Lottery has been operating since 1989 and offers draw games such as Powerball, Mega Millions, and Cash Ball 225, along with a variety of instant scratch-off tickets. Proceeds from the lottery fund college scholarships and educational programs across the state.
Horse Racing
Horse racing is a cornerstone of Kentucky’s gambling culture. The state is home to iconic tracks like Churchill Downs, Keeneland, and Turfway Park. Bettors can place wagers in person at racetracks or online through licensed platforms such as TwinSpires and FanDuel Racing. The Kentucky Derby remains the premier horse race in the country, drawing massive betting interest each May.
Historical Horse Racing (HHR) Machines
HHR machines, which use the results of past horse races to determine outcomes, are available at several racetracks and gaming venues. These machines resemble slot machines and have become a major revenue source for the state’s horse racing industry.
Charitable Gaming
Nonprofit organizations in Kentucky can host licensed charitable gaming events, including bingo, raffles, and pull-tab games. These activities must comply with state regulations and benefit approved charitable causes.
Retail Betting Locations in Kentucky
In-person sports betting is available at multiple licensed venues across the Bluegrass State. These retail sportsbooks are located primarily at horse racing tracks and gaming halls, offering a mix of traditional betting counters, self-service kiosks, and hospitality amenities for fans who prefer the on-site experience.
- Churchill Downs
- 700 Central Ave., Louisville, KY 40208
- Derby City Gaming & Hotel
- 4520 Poplar Level Road, Louisville, KY 40213
- Derby City Gaming Downtown
- 140 S. 4th St., Louisville, KY 40202
- Ellis Park
- 3300 US Highway 41 N., Henderson, KY 42420
- The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland
- 244 Penny Lane, Williamsburg, KY 40769
- The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland Run
- 777 Winners Lane, Corbin, KY 40701
- Newport Racing & Gaming
- 1723 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
- Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel
- 777 Winners Way, Oak Grove, KY 42262
- The Red Mile
- 1200 Red Mile Road, Lexington, KY 40504
- Turfway Park Racing & Gaming
- 7500 Turfway Road, Florence, KY 41042
- Sandy’s Gaming and Racing - 10775 US-60, Ashland, KY 41102
- Ellis Park
- 3300 US-41 N, Henderson, KY 42420
Kentucky sports betting FAQ
Is online sports betting legal in Kentucky?
Yes, online sports betting is legal in Kentucky. Retail sportsbooks launched on September 7, 2023, followed by the official online and mobile sports betting launch on September 28, 2023. The industry is regulated by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission.
What is the legal age for sports betting in Kentucky?
The legal sports betting age in Kentucky is 18 under state law. However, some sportsbooks set their own minimum age at 21, so requirements can vary by operator.
What is the tax rate for sports betting in Kentucky?
Kentucky applies a 14.25% tax on online sports betting revenue and a 9.75% tax on retail sports betting revenue.
What sportsbooks are available in Kentucky?
As of 2025, licensed sportsbooks in Kentucky include Bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, FanDuel, DraftKings, Fanatics, ESPN Bet, and Circa Sports.
Do I need to be a resident to bet online in Kentucky?
No, residency is not required. However, you must be physically located within Kentucky state lines to place an online bet, verified via geolocation technology.
To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by
Damien Souness
as part of our fact-checking process.
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