Rhode Island May Open Sports Betting Market to New Operators

Rhode Island’s decade-long model of a single-operator sports betting market could soon see major reform. State officials and legislators are considering introducing competition to a system that has, since 2019, been fully controlled by International Game Technology (IGT). The Rhode Island Lottery, which oversees gambling operations, recently sought industry feedback—and eight major betting companies responded.

Interest from Leading Sportsbook Brands

The Lottery’s request for information (RFI) drew responses from prominent names including Bally’s, Fanatics, Kambi, DraftKings, BetMGM, OpenBet, and FanDue, alongside IGT itself. The company currently operates Sportsbook RI, the state’s only licensed betting platform, under an exclusive agreement that runs until November 2026.

Lottery spokesperson Paul Grimaldi confirmed that officials are “moving ahead with [their] examination of whether adding more apps is feasible.” He added that a formal request for proposals could follow later in the month.

Fanatics publicly voiced its backing for an “open and competitive market” in Rhode Island, while Bally’s—headquartered in Providence—also reaffirmed its interest in joining should the state allow additional licenses. Several other operators either declined to comment or remained silent on the matter.

Legislative Efforts to Expand the Market

Although state regulators have shown openness to exploring new options, legislative action remains slow. A bill championed by Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone sought to authorize up to five sportsbook operators by July 2026. However, the measure, which DraftKings supported, failed to clear the House. A companion bill introduced by Representative Matthew Dawson also stalled in committee.

Had it passed, the legislation would have blocked the renewal of IGT’s exclusive contract beyond July 2026 and mandated the licensing of at least five new betting platforms. While momentum has temporarily faded, Rhode Island lawmakers have historically revived gambling legislation late in the session, leaving open the possibility of further debate next year.

Still, economic pressures remain a key factor. Despite a modest increase in handle—from $484 million in 2024 compared to 2023—the state’s sports betting revenue fell sharply. According to official figures, Rhode Island’s profit dropped nearly 25% year-over-year, totaling $19.2 million in fiscal 2024.

A report from the Auditor General attributed the downturn to intense regional competition. Neighboring Massachusetts and Connecticut both host widely used sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings, which offer broader betting options and smoother user experiences.

Sen. Ciccone cited persistent complaints about the Sportsbook RI platform, from limited betting markets to usability issues, as one of the main reasons behind his reform proposal.

Public Opinion and Market Challenges

Recent survey data suggest that Rhode Island may face limited consumer enthusiasm for sportswagering even if the market expands. A University of New Hampshire study conducted in late September found that only 15% of Rhode Islanders bet on sports at least occasionally—the lowest participation rate among New England states. By comparison, 18% of Massachusetts residents and 17% of Connecticut residents reported doing so.

Providence College professor Patrick Kelly expressed skepticism about the potential economic impact of opening the market. “I don’t think it’s going to be much of a game changer,” he said. However, he also warned that introducing more operators could heighten advertising pressure, particularly among younger players.

Unlike neighboring jurisdictions, Rhode Island permits sports betting at age 18, which could appeal to college-aged adults, including those from out of state.

As Rhode Island weighs whether to end IGT’s monopoly in 2026, policymakers face a delicate balance between boosting competition, protecting consumers, and sustaining state revenues in an increasingly crowded regional betting landscape.

Source: Rhode Island Eyes End to Sports Betting Monopoly in 2026, RealMoneyAction, October 2025.