Fanatics sportsbook revealed that it has entered a new market with the confirmation of its launch in Virginia. It will replace PointsBet in the Old Dominion State, and joins SuperBook and ESPN Bet as the other operators to go live in the Virginia sports betting market in the last month.
It is currently a really busy time for the US sports betting industry, and this is particularly noticeable for new operators launching in Virginia. In addition to the new arrivals, bettors in Virginia can also choose from existing sportsbooks such as DraftKings and BetMGM, giving locals more options.
As part of the launch, Fanatics is offering players 5% back on bets in FanCash as part of a bigger seven-day Rewards promo. The operator has also stated that they are aiming to bring in more customers to the platform with an app that is more adaptable to Android and iOS devices than their rivals’ iterations. With mobile betting being a key market, having an app ready to go without bugs and faults from the launch date is crucial.
Fanatics is also joining forces with top pro leagues such as the NBA, MLB, NHL and gambling operators as part of a responsible gaming campaign which will see advertisements promoting safe betting visible when you are watching a basketball or baseball game.
Fanatics Continues Expansion
Fanatics Betting and Gaming acquired PointsBet’s U.S.-based operations earlier this year. Any former PointsBet customers will have an easy transition to the Fanatics app in Virginia, as their existing log in credentials will work when signing into the Fanatics site.
Fanatics is best known for memorabilia and sports retail items, but decided to move into the gaming industry in 2021 and has since launched its online sports betting sites in Massachusetts, Ohio, Maryland, Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia. The company also runs three retail sportsbooks, including one at FedEx Field, which is great exposure for Fanatics as it is the home of the NFL’s Washington Commanders. It is the first physical location inside an NFL stadium.
Virginia Market Growing
Fanatics will hope that their partnership with a well-known and supported team such as the Commanders will establish them in a competitive state.
Sports betting launched in Virginia in 2021 and is currently home to 16 operators. Like in most states, Fanatics will have to compete to win custom in Virginia against some really big hitters like FanDuel, Caesars, DraftKings, BetMGM, BetRivers and bet365.
