PointsBet Announces 20-Year Partnership with Iconic Hawthorne Race Course as Legalized Sports Betting Comes to Illinois

The partnership is highlighted by the launch of a premium retail sportsbook operation, which will bring legalized sports betting to the Chicago area, the third largest metropolitan area in the United States with over 9.5 million people. PointsBet and Hawthorne Race Course will work in tandem to build a world-class, multi-faceted sports entertainment venue centrally located on the property of the historic racecourse following licensure by the Illinois Gaming Board.   

The agreement also involves PointsBet and Hawthorne partnering to launch sports betting at off-track betting establishments throughout the state and digital sports wagering via PointsBet's mobile app and website. 

"PointsBet is ecstatic to partner with Hawthorne Race Course, an iconic venue that has been part of the fabric of the Chicago sports and entertainment scene since its inception in 1891," said Johnny Aitken, PointsBet's U.S. CEO. "Illinois sports fans are diehard in every sense of the word and we are elated to introduce them to our premium sportsbook and our innovative, bettor-first experience." 

PointsBet will bring its best-in-market proprietary technology, modernized and premium brand mentality, expert trading practices, and proven growth marketing strategies to Illinois' eager sports betting market.

"Governor Pritzker and the Legislature have given us an historic opportunity to transform the Illinois racing industry with the addition of casino gaming and sports betting," said Tim Carey, president and general manager of Hawthorne Race Course.  "It's an opportunity that we won't take lightly and that's exactly why we chose PointsBet as our partner.  Our business has survived because we put players first, and PointsBet has proven they do as well.  That is how we are going to succeed together."

Launched in the United States in January 2019, PointsBet is a rapidly growing sportsbook with unique offerings and a bettor friendly approach. PointsBet has introduced a slew of bettor-first initiatives including, Good Karma Payouts, which provides bettors relief in the event of unlikely circumstances that sway the fate of the game, Early Payouts, and an exclusive $10,000 gameday guarantee for all NBA and NHL playoff games, as well as the entire MLB and NFL seasons.