Massachusetts announces legalized sports betting launch time

Sports betting in Massachusetts is set to begin on January 31 at three casinos, as per the decision of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC). The exact starting time for the launch was yet to be confirmed, with options of a 12:01 a.m. start, similar to Ohio, or a more casual schedule being considered.

The MGC, however, chose to go with the latter option on Friday. Commissioners authorized a plan for retail sports betting to begin at 10 a.m., which will also mark the beginning of legal sports betting in the state.

Residents aged 21 and above can visit the Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, MGM Springfield in Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville to place bets starting from 10 a.m. ET on Tuesday, January 31.

MGC approves start time for retail sports betting launch

The timetable was offered by MGC Executive Director Karen Wells, but the launch is still reliant on the casinos gaining their operating license next week. Before going live, the casinos’ game operators must also undergo on-site testing.

However, provided all relevant licenses are secured, casinos can begin accepting wagers during a very calm time of day for them. That was partly why the MGC wanted the morning start, to prevent overwhelming the facilities.

The MGC commissioners intend to be present at the casinos for the launch as well, which requires a considerable travel plan.

Retail sports betting, and hence legal sports betting, will begin in Massachusetts in less than two weeks. According to the MGC’s schedule, online sports betting sites will begin accepting wagers in March.

There will be more options for mobile sports betting than for retail sites in Massachusetts. Commissioners have approved 11 online sports betting operators. However, there are only five places where you can place retail bets, which are three casinos and two racetracks.

The MGC spent time Friday looking through other requirements, including the necessity to give tools for players to set deposit and wager limits.