Hard Rock Bet Ready for Debut in Illinois
Hard Rock Digital is expanding its reach in the US sports betting market with the upcoming launch of Hard Rock Bet in Illinois. The online sports betting app is set to go live across the state, while in-person betting will begin at the Hard Rock Casino Rockford’s sportsbook on August 29. This launch marks a significant development for both Hard Rock Digital and the Illinois sports betting landscape.
The rollout of Hard Rock Bet in Prairie State comes as part of a broader strategy by Hard Rock Digital to enhance its presence in the growing US sports betting market. Marlon Goldstein, executive managing director and CEO of Hard Rock Digital, expressed excitement about the timing of the launch, which coincides with the start of the football season. He highlighted the company’s ongoing innovations on its platform and the “Roll With Us” campaign as key components of the strategy. Goldstein emphasized that the company is eager to provide Illinois bettors with a unique and engaging experience through the Hard Rock Bet app and the new in-person sportsbook at Hard Rock Casino Rockford.
Geno Iafrate, president of Hard Rock Casino Rockford, shared similar enthusiasm, noting that the introduction of sports betting was always a central part of the casino’s plans for Rockford. He pointed out that the launch of both mobile and in-person sports betting at Hard Rock Bet is a milestone for the Hard Rock brand in Illinois.
Iafrate emphasized that guests at Hard Rock Casino Rockford can now enjoy a comprehensive entertainment experience, whether they want to place bets on a sporting event, enjoy live music, dine, or play table games and slots—all under one roof.
The Hard Rock Casino Rockford is strategically located just off the I-90 State Street exit, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. The casino offers more than 175,000 square feet of gaming, entertainment, and hospitality space, featuring nearly 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games, and a poker room. With the addition of sports betting, the casino further solidifies its position as a premier destination for entertainment in Illinois.
Illinois has become one of the largest sports betting markets in the US, with a sports betting handle of $848.1 million in June 2024. This figure represents a 27.4% increase year-over-year, although it was down 16.9% from May 2024. The vast majority of bets in June ($823.7 million) were placed online, while $24.4 million was wagered in person.
The launch of Hard Rock Bet in Illinois not only strengthens the Hard Rock brand but also provides Illinois bettors with more options for legal sports wagering. The state’s sports betting market continues to grow, and Hard Rock Digital’s entry adds a new player to the competitive landscape, offering a combination of digital and in-person betting experiences.
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