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Eight online sportsbooks, including DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, and FanDuel, constitute the legal Kentucky sports betting scene. New bettors can capitalize on a litany of Kentucky sportsbook promos and bonuses worth up to $6,400.

Best Kentucky sportsbook promos

21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

#1

Up To $1,500 Back In Bonus Bets

Bonus bets will expire in 7 days. One new customer offer only. Additional terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Some of the best live-betting odds.
  • Great deposit options.
  • Earn MGM Rewards from betting activity.

BetMGM Review

First-time bettors — 21+ only — who register with the sportsbook using BetMGM Kentucky bonus code SBRBONUS can deposit $10 or more and place a qualifying wager on any sports market. Should the wager lose, you’ll get your stake back, up to $1,500, as non-withdrawable bonus bets. The bonus bets will arrive in your account within 24 hours of your losing wager settling, and you will have seven days to use them.

Remember: If you wager less than $50 and lose, you’ll acquire one bonus bet. But if you wager over that amount, you’ll get your bonus bets in 20% denominations.

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Features

#2

Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets

New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of $5+ and get $200 in Bonus Bets (within 72 hours).

Features

  • Top-tier app experience.
  • Same Game Parlays and SGP+.
  • Extensive promos and odds boosts.

FanDuel Review

To claim the welcome offer, new FanDuel KY users must register and download the mobile app to make their first deposit of at least $5. Then, place your initial wager of $5 or more on any moneyline market. Win or lose, you'll get $200 in bonus bets. The reward will appear in your account within 72 hours of placing the qualifying bet. The bonus bets must be used within seven days, or they will expire.  

Offer ends on Oct. 13, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Features

#3

Choose One: $200 or $1,000 in Bonuses

Deposit required. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns.  New Customers only. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. To receive your Bonus Bets, you must be aged 18 and over and verified by bet365. Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Features

  • Extensive live betting options.
  • More markets than any other sportsbook.
  • One of the best apps in the industry.

bet365 Review

Deposit required. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns.  New Customers only. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.

To receive your Bonus Bets, you must be aged 18 and over and verified by bet365. Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Features

#4

$1,000 First Bet on Caesars

Features

  • Earn Caesars Rewards from betting activity.
  • Live streaming of NFL games.
  • User-friendly mobile app.

Caesars Review

The welcome offer for new U.S. customers is a $1,000 first bet on Caesars. Ensure you use the active Caesars Sportsbook promo code — SBRBONUS1000 — to claim the offer.      

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Features

#5

Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets

Terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Live in 21 states
  • Extremely powerful brand history and recognition
  • FanCash reward system is great for sports fans

Fanatics Sportsbook Review

Fanatics Sportsbook has launched its app in 21 states already, with plans to expand to more in the near future. Fanatics is poised to be a major player in the sports betting industry.

Features

#6

Bet $5, Get $200 Bonus Bets

Terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Lots of promos and odds boosts.
  • Wide range of sports and bet types.
  • Seamless integration with DFS.

DraftKings Review

New customers with DraftKings KY can place an initial deposit and wager of $5 or more on any sports market to receive $00 in bonus bets, win or lose. The reward will be delivered as eight (8) $25 bonus bets that are non-withdrawable, non-transferable, non-refundable, and will expire after seven days. No DraftKings Kentucky promo code is required.

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. 18+

Features

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission.

Kentucky sportsbook promo codes and bonuses

The best sportsbooks and Kentucky sports betting apps opened their virtual doors on Sept. 28, 2023. Eight options are currently available to KY bettors, providing some of the best sportsbook promos for new and existing users.

Eventually, up to 27 sportsbooks — each of the state’s nine horse racing tracks can partner with up to three mobile operators — could fill the Kentucky market.

Here is the full list of Kentucky sportsbook promo codes and welcome bonuses currently accessible in the Bluegrass State:

KY sportsbook 🏆Welcome bonus 💰Promo code ✅
⭐ BetMGMSBRBONUS
⭐ FanDuelNo code required
⭐ bet365SBRBONUS
⭐ CaesarsSBRBONUS1000
⭐ FanaticsNo code required
⭐ DraftKingsNo code required
⭐ CircaNo bonus, but high limitsNo code required
⭐ ESPN BETUp to $1,500 in bonusesNo code required

18+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

1. DraftKings Kentucky bonus offer 👑

Bet $5, Get $200 Bonus Bets

Terms and conditions apply.

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

From owning one of the industry’s leading mobile apps to providing the most seamless user experience available, DraftKings reigns supreme even amongst sports betting’s elite. It’s no surprise, then, that the top Kentucky sportsbook bonus is DraftKings’  in bonus bets offer.

Here’s what you need to know about the DraftKings Kentucky welcome bonus:

  • You don't need a DraftKings promo code to get started.
  • Following registration, put down a minimum deposit and wager of $5 or more on any sports market. 
  • Regardless of your qualifying bet's outcome, DraftKings will credit your account with $200 in bonus bets
  • The reward comes as eight (8) $25 bonus bets, which cannot be withdrawn as cash or split into smaller pieces.
  • The bonus bets must be used within seven days, or they will expire.

For more details on this KY online sportsbook, head over to our full DraftKings review

DraftKings promo pros and cons

ProsCons
✔️ Only a $5 qualifying wager required❌ Lower overall bonus amount
✔️ Great for new players❌ Expires quickly
✔️ Terms and conditions easily accessible on app

Why this DraftKings promo is better than others?

Few other Kentucky sportsbook promos offer new users such a low wagering requirement. A $5 risk to add $200 to your bankroll — on top of your other winnings — is a great low-risk, high-reward entry point to the sports betting space. Not only that, but the bonus bets aren't tied to winning (or losing) your first bet, so you won't have to sweat the result. 

Screenshots of the DraftKings Sportsbook iOS app.
DraftKings iOS app

2. bet365 Kentucky bonus offer 🟢

Choose One: $200 or $1,000 in Bonuses

Deposit required. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns.  New Customers only. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. To receive your Bonus Bets, you must be aged 18 and over and verified by bet365. Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Historically, bet365 has known precisely how to treat first-timers when it arrives in a new market, and that trend is holding for Kentucky. The sportsbook is offering potential KY customers a  sign-up offer.

Here's a breakdown of the bonus information:

  • Sign up with bet365 bonus code SBRBONUS and deposit $10 or more.
  • You must claim the offer within seven days of registration.
  • Make your first wager of at least $5 on any sports market.
  • To qualify, your wager must have odds of -500 or greater.
  • Once your wager settles — win or lose — you'll receive $200 in bonus bets.
  • Bonus bets expire seven days after they are added to your account.

Alternatively, you can collect bet365's other new-player bonus instead — a . Remember: You can only claim one welcome promo with bet365.

  • Following registration and inputting the promo code, deposit at least $10 within seven days of redeeming the offer.
  • You must claim the reward within seven days of signing up.
  • Place your initial bet of any amount on any sports market.
  • If your qualifying wager fails, you'll get your stake back, up to $1,000, in bonus bets.
  • The bonus bets will arrive within one hour of your qualifying wager settling.

Our bet365 review has more insight on why its one of the best sportsbooks available in Kentucky. 

bet365 promo pros and cons

ProsCons
✔️ Two offers to choose from❌ Odds of -500 or greater eligible to bet
✔️ Only a $5 wager required❌ 7-day claim period
✔️ Only a $10 deposit required

Why this bet365 promo is better than others

bet365's KY bonus includes a mere $5 wagering requirement to instantly unlock $200 in bonus funds. That risk-to-rewards ratio is simply a no-brainer. The best part of the bet365 KY welcome bonus, though, is really that you have a choice. You can opt for the $200 in bonus bets OR the up to $1,000 in first-bet insurance; whichever suits your betting style best. 

Screenshot of bet365 Sportsbook app in iOS.
bet365 iOS App

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

3. FanDuel Kentucky bonus offer 🔵

Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets

New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of $5+ and get $200 in Bonus Bets (within 72 hours).

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Aside from its rival, DraftKings — ensure you check out our FanDuel vs. DraftKings comparison guide — arguably, no modern sportsbook is as iconic as FanDuel. With the platform officially live in the Bluegrass State, it’s offering one of the best Kentucky sports betting promos via its  offer.

Here are the sign-up bonus’ most pertinent details:

  • No FanDuel promo code is necessary.
  • You must be at least 21 to wager with FanDuel in Kentucky.
  • You must download the FanDuel mobile app and deposit at least $10 after registration.
  • Place a wager of $5 or more on any available market. Win or lose, FanDuel will provide you with $200 in non-withdrawable bonus bets.
  • You will receive the bonus bets within three days of your qualifying wager settling as a win.
  • The bonus bets have a lifespan of seven days and will expire if unused.

Head over to our in-depth FanDuel review for more information about one of our favorite sportsbooks. 

FanDuel promo pros and cons

ProsCons
✔️ Low initial risk❌ Expires quickly
✔️ Built-in flexibility❌ Low bonus amount
✔️ Only $5 minimum deposit necessary

Why this FanDuel bonus is better than others

Not many Kentucky sportsbook promos for first-time users can match FanDuel’s offer in terms of pure flexibility — its bonus bets can be broken down into multiple smaller bets of any domination, without being tied to certain dollar or percentage amounts. You can make a single $200 wager or 200 separate $1 wagers (or anything in between). 

Screenshot of the FanDuel Sportsbook app for Android. 
FanDuel Android App

4. Caesars Kentucky bonus offer 🏛

$1,000 First Bet on Caesars

Terms and conditions apply

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

When choosing a betting site, Kentuckians may find the pizazz of Caesars’ Las Vegas atmosphere alluring — along with its equally flashy welcome offer. New users can obtain a  reward via Caesars Sportsbook promo code SBRBONUS1000.

Here are the offer’s key components:

  • You must be 21 or older to sign up with Caesars Kentucky.
  • After registering, make an initial deposit of at least $10.
  • Place your qualifying wager of any amount on any sports market you prefer within 30 days of registration.
  • Should your first bet lose, Caesars will issue you a refund, up to $1,000, as a bonus bet.
  • The single bonus bet you receive cannot be broken down into multiple wagers. It will arrive in your account within 48 hours of your losing wager settling.
  • If you do not use the bonus bet within 14 days, it will expire.
  • You cannot withdraw the bonus bet, nor will it be part of any real-money winnings you earn when using it as the stake.

Still not convinced? Our Caesars review has even more information on why its one of the best sportsbooks in any state. 

Caesars Sportsbook promo pros and cons

ProsCons
✔️ High-value reward❌ First bet must lose
✔️ Only $10 minimum deposit❌ Quick expiry
✔️ Solid for experienced bettors

Why this Caesars bonus is better than others

When it comes to first-bet insurance, this Caesars' bonus is hard to beat. Even though BetMGM has a similar offer with a higher maximum dollar amount, most betters aren't going over $1,000 with their very first wager on a new sportsbook. When you factor in the automatic enrollment into the Caesars Rewards loyalty program, this bonus becomes even more attractive. 

Screenshot of Caesars Sportsbook for Android. 
Caesars Android App

5. BetMGM Kentucky bonus offer 🦁

Up To $1,500 Back In Bonus Bets

Bonus bets will expire in 7 days. One new customer offer only. Additional terms and conditions apply.

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

BetMGM hopes its historic reputation in the gaming industry entices the people of Kentucky to join its platform. To further tempt prospective bettors, the sportsbook is tendering its up to welcome offer.

Here’s what to keep in mind now that BetMGM KY’s new bettor bonus is online:

  • After signing up for your new account with BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS, you must make a first deposit of at least $10.
  • You must be 21 or older to bet with BetMGM in Kentucky.
  • Locate your preferred market(s) and place your initial wager. Should it flop, BetMGM will return your stake, up to $1,500, as bonus bets.
  • The bonus bets you receive will be divided into 20% denominations on wagers over $50. If you wager less than $50, you will garner a single bonus bet.
  • The reward will appear in your account within 24 hours, and you’ll have seven days to use it

Click over to our full BetMGM review to get the whole story. 

BetMGM promo pros and cons

ProsCons
✔️ Low initial risk of just $5❌ Bonus bets not flexible
✔️ Largest potential bonus in KY❌ First bet must lose to collect
✔️ Best for experienced bettors

Why this BetMGM bonus is better than others

The short answer? This bonus is simply the biggest in Kentucky. Sports betting promos worth $1,500 or more are few and far between. Additionally, BetMGM pays out its bonus bets in five increments (on losing first wagers of at least $50). That adds some valuable flexibility to your bonus bets, instead of having to use them all at once. 

Screenshot of BetMGM Sportsbook app on Android.
BetMGM Android App

6. Fanatics Kentucky bonus offer 🧢

Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets

Terms and conditions apply.

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Fanatics has some work to do to catch up with the top dogs in the sports betting industry, and its is sure to help make up some ground. Here are the crucial terms and conditions to know before claiming the Fanatics promo:

  • No Fanatics promo code is required.
  • You must download the Fanatics Sportsbook app before activating your account.
  • Place your first qualifying wager of $5 or greater and win or lose, Fanatics will match the amount wagered with bonuses (max $100 per day).
  • Repeat this process in the in days 2-10 after account registration to earn up to $1,000 in total bonuses.
  • You can claim one bonus per day and opt-in is required after day one.
  • Failure to opt in on a given day forfeits your bonus for that day only.
  • Bonuses expire after seven days and can't be withdrawn for cash.

For more actionable intel, be sure to read our Fanatics review

Fanatics promo pros and cons

ProsCons
✔️ $5 wagering requirement❌ Daily opt-in required
✔️ Bonuses sent win or lose❌ Must wager for ten days to receive full $1,000 bonus
✔️ No promo code necessary❌ Bonus expires after seven days

Why this Fanatics bonus is better than others

The Fanatics bonus is perfect for any bankroll, since it scales up (or down) to your betting budget. While higher rollers might have no issues betting $100 for ten days in a row, novice bettors might only be comfortable risking $10 or $20 at a time. No worries, because Fanatics will match your daily bets anywhere from $5 to $100, win or lose. 

Fanatics Screens
Fanatics Android App

How we rate and review sports betting promotions

With the first batch of legal online sportsbooks live in Kentucky as of Sept. 28, 2023, you can rest easy knowing our industry experts have spent numerous hours reviewing and critiquing every one. We zero in on specific aspects of sports betting sites to fabricate custom ratings for our detailed reviews.

And so, as it pertains to assessing the top Kentucky sports betting promos and bonuses, we take a similar approach. Here are some of the questions we weigh before rating the quality of any welcome bonus:

  • What is the sign-up offer’s maximum value?
  • Is the welcome bonus guaranteed, or does it necessitate a specific circumstance to activate?
  • What is the type of welcome bonus? Is it a deposit match, bet and get, or first bet insurance offer?
  • Is a promo code required?
  • How challenging are the playthrough requirements, and are they achievable within a short timeframe?
  • How fast does the bonus expire?

Kentucky online sportsbooks

Currently, eight online sportsbooks exist in Kentucky. However, each of the state’s nine racing tracks — all of which will eventually host a new on-site sportsbook with legal retail sports betting live — can partner with up to three online operators. So, eventually, Kentucky could welcome up to 27 sports betting sites and apps. 

For now, though, eager bettors should temper expectations. Circa sports received approval for an online sports betting license but didn't launch until April 2, 2024. There doesn't seem to be any other potential operators interested in KY at the moment. 

Kentucky online and mobile sportsbooks

KY sportsbookBest known forRace track partner
bet365Superb live bettingSandy's Gaming and Racing
BetMGM"King of Parlays"Sandy's Gaming and Racing
CaesarsLucrative welcome bonusThe Red Mile
Circa SportsHigh betting limitsCumberland Run
DraftKingsIndustry leaderCumberland Run
ESPN BETSports network integrationEllis Park Henderson and Owensboro
FanDuelHighly-rated appTurfway Park
FanaticsApparel partnerships and rewardsOak Grove Racing and Gaming

Best sportsbooks for Kentucky promos and bonuses

bet365 Kentucky

bet365 Kentucky is now allowing newbies in the state to select between two welcome offers — a reward or a . Just ensure you use bet365 bonus code SBRBONUS during registration.

In addition to its uber-friendly primary promo for new users, you can reap the following benefits by joining bet365:

🔥 Superb live betting: You won’t find a better live betting experience than what bet365 provides. No matter the time or day, its dedicated section hosts a slew of events with meticulously accurate odds.

🔥 Excellent live streaming: Alongside its live betting feature, bet365’s live streaming allows you to access thousands of events throughout the year. Whether you’re hoping to watch horse racing, tennis tournaments, soccer games, or something else, you’ll find it at bet365.

🔥 Unmatched sports coverage: bet365 boasts an enormous number of betting markets, particularly for the most popular leagues, such as the NHL, MLB, NBA, and NFL. Niche sports aren’t forgotten, though — you can wager on cricket, volleyball, rugby, and more.

FanDuel Kentucky

FanDuel is tempting Kentuckians with a  reward for new users. You don't need to input a FanDuel promo code to redeem the offer, either.

Beyond the bonus, consider these features before registering with FanDuel KY:

🔥 Competitive pricing: You’ll find premier odds on most sports betting markets at FanDuel. As if that weren’t enough, the sportsbook also consistently offers boosts to give you a better chance at a big payday.

🔥 Reliable security: FanDuel takes security seriously, and it shows. The sportsbook utilizes a Betfair interface with modern encryptions to protect your data.

🔥 Fantastic mobile experience: Although we generally peg DraftKings as the best sports betting app available, FanDuel isn’t far behind. Straightforward navigation, live betting, an intuitive bet slip, and more all feel smooth and easy.

DraftKings Kentucky

DraftKings set its sights on Kentucky and is now offering first-timers a  reward — no DraftKings promo code needed.

Here are a few benefits that make registering with DraftKings Kentucky worthwhile:

🔥 Leading mobile app: The top-rated mobile sportsbook app in the industry belongs to DraftKings. With a simple and smooth design, betting on the go has never been such a pleasant experience.

🔥 Promos for existing users: The DraftKings sign-up bonus isn’t the only promo the sportsbook offers — existing users are treated to plenty of ongoing rewards, including referral bonuses, profit boosts, same-game parlay offers, and more.

🔥 Great live betting: These days, most sportsbooks provide a live betting section, but most pale in comparison to DraftKings’ product. Whether it’s guaranteeing up-to-the-second odds or organizing props, live betting with DraftKings feels singular.

Caesars Kentucky

Caesars Sportsbook is now welcoming new KY bettors, permitting them to nab a  offer. Caesars Sportsbook promo code SBRBONUS1000 must be entered to unlock the reward.

Here are a few other key elements worth noting about Caesars Kentucky:

🔥 Tons of betting options: An exhaustive betting menu with hundreds of options awaits when you sign up with Caesars. The sportsbook even offers micro-betting via its relationship with SimpleBet.

🔥 Premier customer service: Caesars’ reputation in the sports betting industry is pristine, and a portion of that has to do with its classy customer support team. Whether you prefer live chat, phone, or email, Caesars will help you solve your issues promptly and efficiently.

🔥 Highly touted rewards program: One of the best benefits of joining Caesars Sportsbook is gaining access to its first-class rewards system. You can accumulate points and use them for shopping, hotel stays, dinners, and more.

BetMGM Kentucky

Never one to miss an opportunity, BetMGM is tempting new bettors with an an . To take advantage, simply use the active BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS during sign-up.

But there’s more than just the welcome offer — here are the sportsbook’s standout features:

🔥 Same-game parlays: BetMGM refers to itself as the “King of Parlays” for a reason. Building your bets is efficient, with all sports, leagues, and events splayed out for you in an accessible manner.

🔥 Plentiful banking options: If you can think of a banking method, BetMGM likely has it. From PayPal to Play+ to PayNearMe, pinpointing your preferred option won’t take long.

🔥 Quality live streaming: Few online sportsbooks offer live streaming, but BetMGM does. You can find tennis matches, soccer games, and more within a dedicated tab.

Types of Kentucky sign-up offers and bonuses

Since they’re the three most common sportsbook sign-up bonuses in the country, it stands to reason that Kentucky bettors will come across deposit matches, bet and gets, and first bet insurance offers now that legal sports betting is officially live in the state. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of how each of these Kentucky betting promos works:

Deposit match

Deposit matches are one of the most straightforward sign-up bonuses for new players since they require nothing more than making a first deposit. Once the deposit has been made, the sportsbook will match the amount, up to a specified number, in non-withdrawable bonus funds.

For example, a betting site offering a 100% deposit match up to $1,000 would provide $1,000 in bonus funds if you made an initial deposit of $1,000 in real cash, instantly doubling your bankroll.

Bet and get

Bet and get bonuses are often the most friendly welcome offers for new players since they typically have low wagering requirements to garner comparatively higher rewards. By placing a first deposit and wager — usually about $10 — the sportsbook will credit bonus funds to your account, regardless of your wager’s outcome.

Sometimes, there will be an additional stipulation, such as requiring your first bet to win. A recent iteration of FanDuel’s bonus, for example, demands just that, needing you to bet $5 and win in order to trigger $150 in bonus bets. Watch out for expiry dates, too, so that your bonus bets don't vanish before you get around to using them. 

First bet insurance

Arguably the most common sign-up bonus available today, first bet insurance offers only trigger when your first bet loses. Then, the sportsbook will refund your stake, up to a certain amount, in bonus funds.

For example, imagine a sportsbook that offers a first-bet insurance bonus with a maximum value of $1,000. Should you register with the platform, wager $1,000 in real cash, and lose, it will reimburse you the $1,000, often as a single bet credit.

Remember to read the terms and conditions associated with each bonus, as some sportsbooks will allow you to chop up the reward into multiple bets, while others won’t.

Referral bonus

Sportsbooks will occasionally offer referral bonuses. They differ from welcome bonuses, as they are geared towards existing users. You'll be asked to refer a friend to the sportsbook, using a unique code or download link. If your friend joins using your referral code, the sportsbook will reward you with a small reward — often a $20 to $75 bonus bet or some cash back. For more information on this type of reward, check out our best sportsbook referral bonuses guide.

Kentucky sports teams to bet on

Kentucky doesn't host any pro teams in the four major sports leagues. The closest it has is the Louisville Bats (minor league baseball) or Louisville City FC (USL Championship soccer). 

However, there are a ton of pro teams in neighboring states, highlighted by the city of Cincinnati on the northern border and Nashville located a couple of hours south.

NFL 🏈NBA 🏀MLB NHL 🏒
Cincinnati BengalsMemphis GrizzliesCincinnati RedsNashville Predators
Indianapolis Colts

The true "hometown team" in Kentucky is college sports. The University of Kentucky Wildcats and the University of Louisville Cardinals are the two biggest programs, excelling in multiple sports, especially basketball. Speaking of basketball, Kentucky is a hotbed for hardcourt fans. Luckily, the state offers some of the best NBA betting sites in the entire country. 

Sports betting by category

Check out our resources on the best sportsbook for specific sports and leagues:

Kentucky sports betting promos summary

↪️ KY apps launch dateSept. 28, 2023
 KY retail launch dateSept. 7, 2023
➡️ Legal betting age18+
🔔 KY regulatorKentucky Horse Racing Commission
🖥️ Remote registrationYes
📱 Online sports bettingYes
🏢 Retail sports bettingYes
🏅 Sports betting apps7
🎰 Online casinosNo
🃏  Online pokerNo
🏆 Daily fantasy sportsYes
☎️ Problem gambling hotline1-800-GAMBLER
ℹ️ Gambling addiction counseling Yes

Kentucky sports betting key developments and updates

Sept. 20, 2024: DraftKings changes welcome offer to a bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets offer.

Aug. 29, 2024: bet365 increases its KY welcome bonus before the start of the new NFL season, now offering a bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets deal OR up to $1,000 in first bet insurance. 

Aug. 19, 2024: Both FanDuel and DraftKings increase their KY welcome bonuses in anticipation of the upcoming new NFL season. 

Aug 13, 2024: Circa Sports announces it will open a temporary brick-and-mortar sportsbook at the Mint Gaming Hall Kentucky Downs, pending regulatory approvals. 

August 9, 2024: Kentucky see a drop in handle in June with $150.3 million compared to $181.35 million in May.

July 29, 2024: FanDuel makes a small change to its KY welcome bonus, now offer new customers $150 in bonus bets if their first wager wins. 

July 4, 2024: Kentucky regulators are still considering the NCAA's request to ban college player prop bets on all legal sportsbooks in the state.

June 17, 2024: New users at Fanatics can earn up to $1,000 in bonuses by wagering between $5 and $200 in the five days following account registration. The total amount you can earn from the Fanatics welcome offer is unchanged, but the steps to earn the bonuses are slightly different.

June 6, 2024: FanDuel and DraftKings, two of Kentucky's most popular online sportsbooks, make changes to their respective welcome bonuses. They are each offering bonus bets to new players meeting certain conditions. 

May 21, 2024: DraftKings KY switches its welcome bonus, now offering a No Sweat First Bet of up to $1,500 for all new customers.

May 4, 2024: Mystik Dan, who was a 20-1 underdog, wins the 2024 Kentucky Derby in a thrilling photo finish. In related news, this year's race was the most bet on Kentucky Derby in history.

Apr. 29, 2024: The annual Kentucky Derby is primed to see more wagers than ever before now that mobile betting apps are legal in the state.

Apr. 15, 2024: DraftKings KY switches up its KY welcome promotion. It is now offering a bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets deal to all new customers.

Apr. 12, 2024: With John Calipari joining the Arkansas Razorbacks, the Kentucky Wildcats name Mark Pope as the next head coach of the men's basketball team. DraftKings gives Kentucky +3500 odds to win the 2025 NCAA Tournament.

Apr. 9, 2024: FanDuel changes its KY welcome bonus, now offering a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets deal.

Apr. 2, 2024: Circa Sports finally launches in Kentucky, becoming the state's eighth legal online sportsbook.

Mar. 26, 2024: Legal sports betting in Kentucky will be restructured under a new law, which creates the new Division of Sports Wagering, to be managed outside the existing Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering.

Feb. 24, 2024: Kentucky announces that 2023 finished strong, with a betting handle of $855.7 million from Sept. 28 (when legal betting began) to Dec. 31, 2023.

Dec. 11, 2023: The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission approves nine sports wagering service provider permits for 2024. They are the same nine who were already authorized on a temporary basis when online betting launched in Sept. 2023.

Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN BET launches in Kentucky for the first time, plus 16 other legal betting states across the country.

Oct. 10, 2023: Circa Sports plans to bring its in-person wagering experience to Kentucky Downs.

Oct 6, 2023: Circa Sportsbook receives authorization to launch its online and retail sports betting platforms in Kentucky. However, no date is set.

Oct. 5, 2023: Gov. Beshear reveals that KY online sportsbooks saw over $50 million in wagers in the first week.

Sept. 29, 2023: Per GeoComply, 2.02 million geolocation checks took place in Kentucky during the state's first full day of legal online sports betting.

Sept. 28, 2023: Online Kentucky sports betting officially goes live at 6 a.m. ET. Seven sportsbooks — Barstool, bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, Fanatics, and FanDuel — open their virtual doors.

Additionally, Circa Sports announces a partnership with ECL Corbin and its Cumberland Run race track. No launch date is provided.

Sept. 27, 2023: Online Kentucky sports betting is a day away. Seven of the eight licensed sportsbooks are expected to launch, with Circa Sports as the lone holdout.

Sept. 22, 2023: Matt Jones, a Kentucky sports radio host, will place the ceremonial first bet with DraftKings' online sportsbook on Sept. 28, 2023, at The Mint Gaming Hall in Cumberland.

Sept. 21, 2023: Legal online KY sports betting is officially a week away, and the state is on track for a smooth launch.

Additionally, the governor's office announces that more than $4.5 million has been wagered at retail sportsbooks over the state's first two weekends of legal betting and that over 60,000 online sportsbook accounts have been registered.

Sept. 7, 2023: Legal retail Kentucky sports betting goes live at 10 a.m. ET. Gov. Andy Beshear places the state’s first wager at Churchill Downs.

Additionally, online sportsbooks begin accepting deposits from pre-registered users.

Aug. 31, 2023: The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission approves the . Some notable market inclusions are cornhole, chess, cricket, the XFL, and the X Games.


Aug. 23, 2023: Gov. Andy Beshear announces he will place the state's first legal sports bet at Churchill Downs Racetrack at 10 a.m. on Sept. 7, 2023.

Aug. 22, 2023: The KHRC approves temporary online sports betting licenses for the seven operators that submitted an application on August 10, as well as Fanatics. 

Additionally, DraftKings announces it will permit KY bettors who are 18 years or older to utilize its sports betting platform.

Aug. 17, 2023: Gov. Beshear announces that bettors eager to register with mobile sportsbooks early can begin doing so with approved platforms on Aug. 28, 2023.

Aug. 10, 2023: The KHRC announces that seven operators have submitted applications for online sports betting licenses: bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, Circa Sports, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PENN Entertainment (ESPN BET).

Aug. 7, 2023: BetMGM announces a partnership with Revolutionary Racing Kentucky to enter the KY market on Sept. 28, 2023, and begin offering online sports betting. The operator also plans to open a brick-and-mortar sportsbook at Sandy's Racing and Gaming.

Aug. 1, 2023: As with Caesars before it, FanDuel announces that it will require all Kentucky bettors to be at least 21 years old to use its product, despite state law opting for a minimum sports betting age of 18.

July 27, 2023: Churchill Downs reveals it will offer legal sports betting at its horse racing machine (HRM) venues on the first day they are legally allowed to.

July 21, 2023: The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has begun filling the 14 additional positions allotted to help regulate retail and online sports betting.

July 13, 2023: Gov. Andy Beshear signs an executive order to create a “Sports Wagering Advisory Council” that will help oversee retail and online sports betting sites in Kentucky.

July 10, 2023: The KHRC unanimously approves the proposed sports betting regulations for the state. Retail wagering will begin on Sept. 7, 2023, followed by online betting on Sept. 28, 2023.

July 6, 2023: The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission at the Red Mile track to begin discussing legal framework for online sports betting, now that HB 551 is officially law.

June 29, 2023: The Kentucky sports betting bill (HB 551) officially goes into effect, 90 days after the governor signed it into law. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission now has six months to establish a framework and grant licenses to online sportsbooks.

June 20, 2023: Jonathan Rabinowitz, chairman of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, announces that stakeholders are inspecting a draft of sports betting rules and that the KHRC tentatively expects an early July meeting to discuss and potentially approve those rules.

May 16, 2023: Caesars announces it's partnering with Keeneland and The Red Mile in Lexington for both mobile and retail sports betting. Additionally, Caesars will limit sports betting to those 21 or older, despite KY law allowing anyone over 18 to wager.

May 6, 2023: Mage and jockey Javier Castellano, at 15-1 odds, come from behind to win the 2023 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.

April 18, 2023: The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission meets to discuss the process of drafting regulations for legal sports betting. A deadline has yet to be set for the rules to be put in place.

April 12, 2023: While multiple politicians have suggested that Kentuckians will be able to place sports bets come football season, the KHRC has not backed those claims.

March 31, 2023: Governor Andy Beshear signs HB 551 into law, which will take effect in June 2023. Retail and online sports betting are set to arrive in late 2023 or early 2024.

March 30, 2023: The Senate votes to advance HB 551, 25-12. The bill now heads to the desk of Gov. Beshear for final approval.

March 29, 2023: DraftKings launches its DK Horse App ahead of the Kentucky Derby.

March 13, 2023: The Kentucky House passes HB 551 by a vote of 63-34, sending it onwards to the Senate.

Feb. 22, 2023: Rep. Michael Meredith introduces House Bill 551, which would legalize sports betting in the state.

April 14, 2022: House Bill 606 fails to garner momentum in the Senate and does not pass. Kentucky will go without legal sports betting in 2022.

Jan. 9, 2021: House Bill 241 is introduced. Although hopes are high, the bill ultimately fails.

May 2018: The United States Supreme Court repeals the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), permitting individual states to decide whether or not to legalize sports betting.

Responsible sports betting with Kentucky promos

Per Kentucky’s sports betting law —  — the  oversees all sports betting-related activities in the state. The KHRC reviews applications, approves sportsbook licenses, performs audits and site security checks, enforces laws, and hands out fines. 

The KY Horse Racing Commission also supervises responsible sports betting initiatives, including efforts to curb problem gambling via digital resources, prevention, and treatment options. Kentucky’s sports betting law sets aside 2.5% of tax revenue to fund problem gambling recovery programs.

Some resources are already in place due to Kentucky’s popular horse racing betting industry:

  • Problem gambling hotline: 1-800-GAMBLER
  • Active counselors courtesy of the

For the latest legal updates on sports betting in all 50 U.S. states, check out our legal sports betting state tracker

Kentucky sportsbook promos and bonuses FAQs

What’s the best sports betting bonus in Kentucky?

The best sports betting bonus in Kentucky is subjective, but the operators listed in this guide, including Caesars, FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM, all offer something of value.

Which verified Kentucky sportsbook promos are the best value?

The Kentucky sportsbook promos that offer the best value are the ones listed in this guide.

How old do I need to be to wager on sports in Kentucky?

You need to be at least 18 years old to wager on sports in Kentucky. However, most operators require that you be 21.

Do all Kentucky sportsbooks provide sports betting promo codes?

Many Kentucky sportsbooks do not require promo codes to redeem their welcome bonuses. Most welcome offers are now applied automatically for new customers.

What are legal Kentucky sportsbooks’ playthrough requirements?

The playthrough requirements attached to the bonuses of legal online sportsbooks in Kentucky vary. Ensure you read the terms and conditions of any offer closely.

How many sign-up bonuses can I claim in Kentucky?

Kentucky bettors may claim one sign-up bonus per sports betting site. To avoid bonus abuse, operators will ask for your social security number during registration.