New Ordinance Would Lift Chicago Sports Betting Ban, A Key Step Toward In-Stadium Sportsbooks

Alderman Walter Burnett (27th) is suggesting a new ordinance that would lift Chicago’s prohibition on sports betting, potentially paving the way for full-scale casinos at venues like Wrigley Field and the United Center.

While it may appear insignificant, this step is essential in the process of bringing retail sports betting to Chicago.

In order for sports betting to take place at sporting facilities in Illinois, Chicago must first lift its ban on sports gambling, as outlined in the Sports Wagering Act.

Burnett stated, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times:

They have been considering potential locations for it, such as Wrigley and the United Center. As a result, this regulation needs to be approved in order for that to proceed. The next steps will depend on the council’s decision.

The city will charge a license fee of $50,000 and an annual renewal fee of $25,000, in addition to any fees imposed by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB).

Sports betting is not allowed between dusk and 10 a.m. Monday through Thursday, dusk and 9 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Sunday.

Every location is allowed a maximum of 15 restaurants, unless they offer food and beverages.

Lori Lightfoot, the Mayor of Chicago, seems to support the Chicago zoning ordinance. When asked on Wednesday about the potential impact of Chicago sportsbooks on the city’s casino project, she indicated her approval.

Sports betting is now a legal activity in our state, approved by the General Assembly in 2019, which I fully endorse. I am confident that it will not hinder our plans for a future casino, and we will implement measures to prevent any potential issues.

A physical casino in the United Center?

Burnett’s district is home to the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, located near the United Center. In his statement, he subtly alludes to a proposed casino at the venue.

The United Center has officially expressed interest for the first time. At the moment, information is only available regarding the plans for Wrigley Field.

FanDuel is the most likely candidate to operate a sportsbook at the United Center, given their leading position in Illinois in terms of revenue.

FanDuel was one of the betting partners for the Bulls, prominently displaying baseline advertisements at home games from 2020 to 2021. Jerry Reinsdorf, who owns both FanDuel and the White Sox, has similar partnerships with both entities.

The United Center is co-owned by the Bulls and Blackhawks, rather than Reinsdorf. If betting were to be allowed at the United Center, FanDuel would be the top choice.

Given that the Bulls and Blackhawks have a larger fan base in the area compared to the White Sox, it is probable that the area is more attractive than Guaranteed Rate Field.

What is known about a Chicago Wrigley Field casino?

In September 2020, Wrigley Field and the Cubs wasted no time in taking advantage of a Chicago retail sportsbook. They quickly struck a deal with DraftKings to build a facility right next to the Addison red line train stop.

The business partnership holds a value of $100 million. Regarding the upcoming casino, Cubs official Julian Green issued the following statement.

DraftKings claims that offering a venue for groups to watch the Super Bowl in winter or March Madness, complete with a variety of food and drink options and betting opportunities, would make it their biggest casino in the country.

Approval from both the IGB and the city of Chicago is necessary for Wrigley and DraftKings, which may result in a prolonged process. This is the primary requirement that must be met.

If Chicago residents had utilized the short online registration period, they would already have access to wireless sports betting.

In the future, fans should be able to enter their favorite team’s arena and place a personal bet.