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Minnesota Betting Laws & Guide

Minnesota has a lot of gaming available already, through their 19 casinos run by 11 different Native tribes. This has proved to provide a challenge when it comes to legalizing and implementing sports betting statewide. While they are communicating terms for a deal, which is an improvement, finding something that works for both sides is a tall task.


Is sports betting legal in Minnesota?


No, you cannot bet on sports legally in Minnesota, not even exclusively at one of the casinos as is possible in other states. Horse racing and betting on horse races are legal, but there is no way to bet on the Minnesota Vikings yet. There was a bill that was nearly signed in 2022, but a disagreement on two new horse tracks caused the bill to fall through.



Is DraftKings sports betting legal in Minnesota?


DraftKings isn’t legal in Minnesota but based on the terms of the bill that almost went through, they would’ve likely been partnered with an existing casino and allowed to accept bets through their app. If something similar is struck, DraftKings will be legal. If not, there’s a scenario where the tribes control all sports betting and block companies such as DraftKings. Daily fantasy sports are legal, so you can use DraftKings for that to win money.


Why is Sports Betting Illegal in Minnesota?


While lawmakers have been seeking ways to legalize sports betting for years, conflicting interest with the tribes has made the path difficult. The tribes are worried that they will lose significant amounts of money through their casinos if they don’t have legal ties to whatever sports betting measures are legalized. The tribes are reluctant to concede to a bill that would harm them, while the Senate doesn’t want to give them too much power over sports betting. They’re communicating though, which is an encouraging sign.


When Will Minnesota Sports Betting Start?


It’s impossible to pinpoint an exact launch date for sports betting in Minnesota because nothing is legalized yet. Being optimistic, late 2023 is the earliest that it seems possible for Minnesota to have its state sports betting live. Realistically, 2024 or beyond should be seen as a target for the government and tribes to find a fair middle ground and open it up.


Latest Minnesota sports betting news


  • July 6, 2022: Fresh off a playoff appearance, the Timberwolves swing a trade for center Rudy Gobert, bolstering their interior defense.

  • September 9, 2022: The Twins host the Cleveland Guardians for a three-game weekend set. Cleveland leads the AL Central over the Twins and White Sox by 1.5 games.

  • September 10, 2022: The Minnesota Golden Gophers should cruise to a 2-0 start when they play Western Illinois in Huntington Bank Stadium.

  • September 11, 2022: A Week 1 date with the dreaded Green Bay Packers is the best way to open the season for the Vikings, especially at home.