Chicago Finally Lifts Ban on Sports Betting in City's Stadiums

Chicago Finally Lifts Ban on Sports Betting in City’s Stadiums

Pro sports teams ready to cash in

Chicago Finally Lifts Ban on Sports Betting in City's Stadiums - Wednesday, December 15th, 2021 9:52

Wrigley Field Chicago
Sports betting will now be allowed at Wrigley Field
Sports betting will now be allowed at Wrigley Field
Chicago Finally Lifts Ban on Sports Betting in City's Stadiums Chicago Finally Lifts Ban on Sports Betting in City's Stadiums has been legal since June 2019, when Gov. JB Pritzker signed the sports betting bill SB0690. The industry’s newly licensed operators then accepted their first legal wagers in March of 2020.

However, those who opposed the bill felt that any sports betting licenses issued in Chicago would cut into the profits of the casino that is planned for construction in the city in the near future. As a result, City Council lawmakers imposed a city-wide ban on sports betting.

Chicago Finally Lifts Ban on Sports Betting in City's Stadiums

Sports teams and organizations can now open sportsbooks at or within five blocks of their stadiums. These include:

  • Wrigley Field
  • Soldier Field
  • United Center
  • Wintrust Arena
  • Guaranteed Rate Field
Chicago Finally Lifts Ban on Sports Betting in City's Stadiums

Analysts have estimated that annual revenue in the city could reach $20-$25 million netting Chicago taxes of $400,000-$500,000.

Jenny Tang

An experienced iGaming commentator and analyst based in New York City - Jenny reports on regulation and gambling industry news and events.