Fanatics Sportsbook accepted a $2, four-leg parlay in Massachusetts at the end of 2023, and despite the bet losing, it will still cost the sports betting operator thousands of dollars.
One leg of the parlay included a non-tournament game involving a Massachusetts college basketball team. Wagering on in-state college teams outside of tournament action is a violation of Massachusetts sports betting rules, and the Massachusetts Gaming Commission issued Fanatics Sportsbook a $15,000 fine at Thursday’s meeting for the violation of state rules.
Massachusetts’ quirky college sports betting rules have tripped up operators in the past, including Fanatics.
In addition to Fanatics’ fine, the MGC discussed a matter related to Caesars Sportsbook failing to comply with the state’s knowledge-based authentication (KBA) rules in its know your customer (KYC) process. The issue occurred over a roughly seven-month period. A possible financial penalty related to the mishap wasn’t finalized, as the commission wanted more information on how the error occurred.
The commission also discussed an Ohio rule proposal that would prohibit operators from offering promotions or bonuses as a result of non-gaming transactions. The rule creation stems from Fanatics offering bonus bets in 2023 following customers purchasing Fanatics merchandise.
While the MGC didn’t propose its own rule at Thursday’s meeting, the regulatory body is paying close attention to changes in Ohio as it looks to craft future regulations.