Two of the biggest names in US sports betting, FanDuel and DraftKings, have received regulatory approval to enter the Arkansas online sports betting market after the Arkansas Racing Commission unanimously granted vendor licences.
Under the state’s unique rules, national operators can offer mobile sports betting only by partnering with existing casino license holders. FanDuel will team up with Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, while DraftKings will power the sportsbook offering at Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis.
With these approvals, both companies are expected to replace the current casino-branded betting apps with their own respected platforms, giving Arkansas bettors access to full-featured mobile wagering, live betting, and a broader range of markets. Industry insiders anticipate launch dates could arrive before the 2026 March Madness college basketball tournament, one of the year’s most active periods for wagering activity.
Major shift for Arkansas sports betting market
Online sports betting has been legal in Arkansas since 2022, but until now its market has been dominated by in-house apps tied to local casinos. The entry of FanDuel and DraftKings marks a significant expansion and could drive a notable increase in wagering activity and handle. Some regulators and industry observers predict total betting volume could grow multiple times once nationally recognised sportsbooks are live in the state.
Although Arkansas law requires that at least 51 % of sportsbook revenue stay with the casino partner, the new vendor model lets the national brands operate under the casinos’ licences, offering bettors a familiar experience seen in many other regulated states.
As both operators finalise technical integration and compliance checks, bettors can expect official launch timelines and promotional offers to be announced soon. Stay tuned for updates on state-specific bonuses and app rollout details.
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