Fanatics is the latest sportsbook operator to secure its market access partner for online North Carolina sports betting.
A Fanatics representative confirmed with LSR Friday that the operator is partnered with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes for online NC sports betting. Operator applications are due Dec. 27, with a launch expected by March after regulators ruled out a debut by the Super Bowl.
The partnership is necessary for Fanatics following a sports betting law change in September. The legislative alteration requires sportsbooks to secure a written agreement with a professional sports organization in the state for market access.
In-person sportsbook expected for Fanatics
The Hurricanes recently purchased Backyard Bistro near PNC Arena in Raleigh.
The restaurant will host an in-person sportsbook, according to WRAL.
The partners will release more information about the partnership in the future, according to the spokesperson.
Busy NC sports betting market
This week, regulators learned there are 14 operators interested in the online NC sports betting market.
There are only 11 spots open in connection to professional sports organizations in the state. That could grow in the future with league expansions.
NC Sports betting partnerships emerge
So far, three other operators have announced their partnerships for North Carolina.
Partners available in North Carolina
The Sports Business Journal reported DraftKings will partner with NASCAR for market access. Meanwhile, BetMGM and Betway will partner with the two tracks in the state, according to SBJ. Those entities have not publicly confirmed the partnerships.
Caesars is partnered with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians for in-person sportsbooks at casinos in the state.
Partners available:
- Carolina Panthers
- Charlotte FC
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
- NASCAR
- NC Courage
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- Sedgefield Country Club
Hurtling to launch in North Carolina
Gov. Roy Cooper signed sports betting into law in June, with a slow process until the law alteration in September.
Regulators finalized sports betting rules this week. Now, they turn their attention to the applications due later this month.
While a launch will not be in time for the Super Bowl, it does appear to be lining up for March Madness betting.
