Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has signed a duo of agreements, as the horse racing, gaming and entertainment organisation plans its entry into real money online gaming and sports betting markets.

Through a strategic partnership with SBTech, CDI will see the sports betting solutions providers’ platform integrated for iGaming and sports betting operations, following SCOTUS’ decision to overthrow PASPA earlier in the week.

Allowing the firm to manage its iGaming and sports betting operations, the new SBTech US facing platform will consist of the consumer website, mobile apps, and back office systems.

Entry into New Jersey and Pennsylvania, where both verticals have been approved, is the initial aim of the deal, with Mississippi a further target down the line, subject to the states granting gaming licence approvals and finalising their regulations.

Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs, commented: “We are confident that our strategic partnership with SBTech provides us with an industry leading platform to offer innovative and exciting, integrated iGaming and sports betting products.  

“We have the unique opportunity to leverage our knowledge and experience operating the largest legal online horse racing wagering business in the U.S, as we enter the iGaming and sports betting markets.”

Richard Carter, CEO of SBTech, stated:  “We are thrilled to be partnering with Churchill Downs and to introduce our award-winning iGaming and sports betting platforms in the U.S.

“We both share a deep commitment to technological innovation and excellence, and we look forward to working with them during this exciting time in the history of the U.S. gaming market.”

Furthermore CDI have also announced an agreement with Golden Nugget Atlantic City, pertaining to the firms entry into the real money online gaming and sports betting markets of New Jersey.

Subject to legislation and approvals, CDI is to target a Q1 2019 commencement for accepting legal wagers for iGaming and sports betting in New Jersey

Thomas Winter, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Online Gaming for Landry’s Golden Nugget, said: “We welcome Churchill Downs, a respected U.S. gaming operator with online wagering experience, to New Jersey.

“The addition of their offering will allow Golden Nugget Atlantic City to cater to an even larger demographic of New Jersey online players.”