Likely No North Carolina Sports Betting In January

Nov 16, 2023

Rob Kinnan / USA TODAY Sports

It looks like North Carolina sports betting will not see a launch in January 2024 despite it being the beginning of its potential launch window. The North Carolina Lottery Commission says it expects sports betting will not be ready by January 8. Here are the details.

North Carolina Sports Betting Won't Launch in January

When the state passed its sports betting bill in June 2023, the law required online sports betting to launch anytime between January 8, 2024, and June 2024. The North Carolina Lottery Commission has announced it will not launch at the earliest possible date and we likely won't see it in January go live.

When Will North Carolina Sports Betting Launch?

The sports betting committee for the state didn't set a launch date at its most recent meeting. There are still many hurdles to clear including operators applying for licenses and the committee approving more rules.

Initial Set of Sports Approved by Committee

In its most recent meeting, the state's sports betting governing body put together and approved its initial set of sports that will be allowed to be wagered on in the state. Also, it looks like there are no restrictions on college sports betting for now. This allows bettors to wager on in-state teams like the North Carolina Tarheels and Duke Blue Devils. Here are some of the many sports approved.

Baseball
Basketball
Boxing
Cycling
Football
Hockey
Lacrosse
MMA
Motorsports
Rugby
Soccer
Tennis

The state has approved dozens of sports and will continue to finalize as it inches closer to the deadline.

What Sportsbooks Will Be Live in North Carolina?

The committee and state are yet to start accepting applications for sports betting licenses. This makes it unclear what sportsbooks will be legal in the state. Major players should be jumping into the state. Here's a look at some of the potential sportsbooks that will likely apply for licenses.