Now that major sportsbooks like FanDuel, DraftKings and BetMGM have online sports betting licenses in Maryland, it’s time for the smaller sportsbooks to gain approval. One of those is Superbook Sports.
The sportsbook, which partnered with the Baltimore Orioles last August, must now pass a controlled demonstration to begin taking online bets in Maryland.
Superbook Sports and Crab Sports in line for Maryland launch
Maryland online sports betting has been going strong for nearly three months now. Betfred recently joined the seven sportsbooks that debuted on Nov. 23, 2022 when online betting launched in the state. Now, Superbook Sports, along with Crab Sports, are soon to become the ninth and tenth.
The Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) can issue as many as 60 sports betting licenses. Only 21 applications have been submitted, with eight online sportsbooks operating in Maryland so far.
At a Feb. 15 SWARC meeting, Chairman Tom Brandt said commissioners are currently reviewing applications from smaller sportsbooks now that the big brands are live.
“This is the first of the relatively small mobile sports wagering license applicants.”
Superbook has been in operation for more than 35 years
At the meeting, Superbook officially received its online sports betting license, pending final approval after a controlled demonstration of its product. Once it proves its worthiness, Superbook can begin accepting bets from Marylanders.
Superbook Sports began in 1986 in Las Vegas. They tout themselves as “the go-to source for leading sports media outlets, other bookmakers and a favorite place to wager for both novice and knowledgeable bettors alike.”
While Superbook now has a mobile betting license, it also seeks a retail license. Maryland has seen some recent pushback concerning zoning issues that could position sportsbooks too close to residential areas. Brandt said that’s not up to SWARC to decide.
“SWARC’s public-interest considerations regarding applicants are limited to the criteria that are within our purview. That is, the applicant’s business plan, its ability to generate revenue for the state of Maryland and its ability to create jobs.”
Camden Yards future home of Superbook retail sports betting lounge
But Superbook doesn’t want to use its retail license in a residential area. Rather, it intends to open a sportsbook lounge at Camden Yards, home of the Baltimore Orioles. This retail sports lounge will allow fans to watch the game live, order food and drinks, and — of course — wager on games.
T.J. Brightman, Orioles senior vice president and chief revenue officer, said the team is excited to offer sports wagering to Orioles fans:
“The Orioles are thrilled to partner with Superbook to enhance our gameday experience with the introduction of their first-ever, on-premise sports lounge. While our organization is striving to build the next World Series contender in Charm City, we are constantly exploring unique opportunities to engage with Birdland’s diverse fanbase and welcome new visitors to downtown Baltimore. The addition of a Superbook sportsbook only reinforces our iconic ballpark’s standing as one of the premier entertainment destinations in the region.”
Now that Superbook has an online sports wagering license in Maryland, an official retail license and launch is certainly within reach. However, a timeline for a retail launch could fluctuate due to recent Oriole Park lease discussions.
