Alberta is getting ready to offer legal sports betting, joining other Canadian provinces. The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) is updating the betting scene. This change comes after Ontario’s success, marking a new chapter for sports fans in Alberta.
Now, Albertans can bet through PlayAlberta, a government-run site. It has casino games and sports betting, but it’s missing some variety. The platform also has higher odds compared to other Alberta sports betting apps.
The AGLC has teamed up with NeoPollard Interactive for a new online sportsbook. This move is a big step towards better sports betting rules in Alberta. NeoPollard Interactive will help run the province’s legal sports betting.
As Alberta gets ready to offer more betting options, big names like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM are looking to join. They could add features like cashout options and better odds.
This would fix some current issues in Alberta’s sports betting world, and join Ontario among the second province to join the Canadian sports betting scene.
The Current State of Sports Betting in Alberta
Alberta’s sports betting scene is evolving. The province plans to start a regulated online gambling market, inspired by Ontario’s success. This move aims to boost the economy, like Ontario’s market did by adding CA$2.7 billion to its GDP and creating nearly 15,000 jobs.
PlayAlberta: The Existing Government-Run Platform
PlayAlberta is Alberta’s government-run platform for online sports betting. It made CA$1.5 billion in net gaming income in 2022-23. People 18 and older can use it to bet on sports, accessing many Canadian operators.
Limitations of the Current System
PlayAlberta has done well but has its limits. It offers basic betting for leagues like CFL, NHL, and NFL. It doesn’t have many betting options or cover many sports. This has led many to look for other options.
The Grey Market and Offshore Sportsbooks
Many turn to offshore “grey market” sportsbooks because of PlayAlberta’s limits. These sites aren’t officially legal but aren’t banned either. The government wants to bring these players into the legal sports gambling alberta framework to increase revenue.
Bill 16 has been passed to grow Alberta’s gambling sector. It will let online betting go beyond PlayAlberta. The plan is to create a commercial market administrator like iGaming Ontario. First Nations with casino interests will also be part of this new online market.
Legal Alberta Sports Betting: A New Era on the Horizon
Alberta is getting ready to change its sports betting scene. The plan is to follow Ontario’s lead, which started in April 2022. This move will open up the market for legal sports bookmakers in Alberta.
Following Ontario’s Successful Model
Ontario has shown great success with its sports betting rules. Over 20 third-party operators joined the scene, all managed by iGaming Ontario. Alberta wants to do the same by creating its own body to manage sports betting, separate from the AGLC.
Potential Timeline for Launch
No exact launch date is set yet, but talks are happening. Officials have shared their plans at industry events. They aim to offer safe, regulated betting options and take market share from grey market operators.
Involvement of First Nations
First Nations communities will likely be part of the new platform. This fits with Alberta’s goal of building partnerships and creating economic chances. Private sportsbooks will be a big part of this new era in Alberta sports betting.
As Alberta moves towards a more open sports betting market, it’s joining other Canadian provinces in updating their gambling laws. Quebec, British Columbia, and Manitoba have also expanded their offerings. This change shows a trend towards regulated sports betting, with Ontario leading the charge.
What to Expect from Alberta’s New Sports Betting Landscape
Alberta’s sports betting scene is about to change big time. With 4.5 million people, it’s becoming a key place for sports betting. The new market could make up to $216.7 million by 2026, drawing big names in the industry.
Big names like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM are coming to Alberta. They want a piece of the $100 million Albertans spend on sportsbooks outside the country each year. Fans of teams like the Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers will get more betting options, including single-game bets and live betting.
The “limited-operator model” will make things competitive for licenses. This plan aims for a balanced market and responsible gambling. Albertans will get a regulated betting scene that promises a better experience. It brings legal sports betting to the province’s sports-loving community.
