Sports betting and igaming platform BetMGM has announced the signing of a multi-year sports betting partnership with NASCAR this week, making it an authorized gaming operator of the motorsport firm. The two will collaborate to create and promote engaging sports betting experiences, including introducing in-race betting options, for racing fans across the United States. 

BetMGM will have rights to NASCAR marks and will promote its offerings on its BetMGM.com mobile app, social media channels, and retail sports books. The operator is currently licensed for sports betting in seven states and has plans to be in 11 states by the end of 2020. 

The partnership will also see the introduction of cross-promotional opportunities that may include promotion of BetMGM on NASCAR’s digital platforms, NASCAR.com, the NASCAR Mobile app, and social media channels.

“Partnering with a best-in-class operator like BetMGM positions NASCAR to build on the positive energy and momentum we’re seeing around gaming and in particular the live in-race experience,” said Scott Warfield, NASCAR Managing Director, Gaming. “We’re excited to have such an iconic brand on board to expand our offerings and deepen our engagement with the most passionate fans in sports.”

BetMGM will expand the portfolio of bet types offered on its mobile app throughout the NASCAR season, including pre-race and in-play bets. Bet types currently being explored include top-finishing drivers, driver matchups, stage winners and bets tied to the number of the winning car (over/under), among others. 

Beginning in 2021, it will offer live, in-play betting through a partnership with Genius Sports and live betting product Betgenius as the sport continues to strengthen its position around in-play sports betting. NASCAR and BetMGM are also working together to develop a free-to-play NASCAR game.

Matt Prevost, BetMGM’s Chief Marketing Officer said: “We’re excited to work with the NASCAR team to build immersive sports betting experiences that 21st-century racing fans crave. BetMGM’s unparalleled betting technology combined with NASCAR’s iconic races will create a superior betting experience for racing fans all over the United States.” 

NASCAR has experienced across-the-board growth in its sports betting handle thanks in part to the popularity of the eNASCAR iRacing Pro Invitational Series as well as the sport’s successful return to racing in May. BetMGM has seen NASCAR turnover grow by nearly 1,300% in just the first seven months of the year.