Add Hard Rock Bet Illinois to the list of sports betting options in the Land of Lincoln.
The Illinois sports betting app went live on Monday, thanks to its partnership with Hard Rock Casino Rockford in north central Illinois. In-person betting will be available at the Rockford casino starting Thursday, Aug. 29.
Hard Rock Digital Executive Managing Director & CEO Marlon Goldstein expects a “monumental football season” in “one of the biggest sports betting markets in the country.” Illinois is one of only three states to pass $3 billion in all-time sports betting revenue.
“We’re thrilled to be delivering the unique Hard Rock Bet mobile experience to players throughout Illinois on our award-winning app and in-person at the new sportsbook at the amazing Hard Rock Casino Rockford,” Goldstein said.
Hard Rock Bet is one of nine Illinois sports betting options in the Prairie State. The others are:
- BetMGM Sportsbook • BetRivers Sportsbook • Caesars Sportsbook • Circa Sportsbook
- DraftKings Sportsbook • ESPN Bet • Fanatics Sportsbook • FanDuel Sportsbook
Hard Rock Bet Illinois Offers In-Person Wagers For CFB
The Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook in Rockford will feature five betting kiosks, three betting windows, multiple televisions, plus food and drink options.
Thursday’s in-person launch is significant because a casino visit is the only way to place a bet on college football odds in Illinois. Visitors will find moneylines, spreads, and totals only. Sportsbooks can’t take college team or player prop bets.
Sports betting was part of an overall plan for Hard Rock Casino Rockford, according to its president, Geno Iafrate.
“The launch of Hard Rock Bet on mobile and in-person sports betting is another milestone for the Hard Rock brand in Illinois,” he said, adding:
“If guests want to enjoy live music, have a meal, play table games, slots, or place bets on a sporting event, they can now take part in any facet of entertainment all under one roof.”
From November 2021 to August 2024, Hard Rock Casino Rockford used a temporary site, “Hard Rock An Opening Act.” Starting at about 3 p.m. Thursday, wagers will change hands at the casino’s permanent site.
Illinois becomes Hard Rock Bet’s Eighth State
Hard Rock Bet is now available in eight states:
- Arizona • Florida • Illinois • Indiana
- New Jersey (plus iGaming) • Ohio • Tennessee • Virginia
Illinois bettors placed $12.8 billion in bets in the budget year between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024. The volume created $1.11 billion in revenue for Hard Rock Bet’s Illinois competitors.
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