Caesars Entertainment opens first retail sportsbook in Maine

Caesars Entertainment has launched the first retail sportsbook in Maine through a partnership with First Tracks Investments.

Powered by Caesars Sportsbook, the newly opened Oddfellahs in downtown Portland is the first in-person sports wagering location to go live in the Pine Tree State.

Oddfellahs commemorated the grand opening with a ceremonial first bet placed by Portland Mayor Mark Dion, alongside representatives from Caesars Sportsbook, First Tracks, the Portland City Council, and the Maine Gambling Control Unit.

“We’d like to thank Governor Janet Mills, the Maine Gambling Control Unit, the Portland City Council and the entire state legislature for making today possible,” said Caesars Digital president Eric Hession. “It’s great to see the momentum following our launch of mobile sports wagering in the state through our historic partnership with three of the Wabanaki Nations.

“With the first in-person sportsbook now operational, we look forward to collaborating with First Tracks on additional in-person opportunities in Maine.”

First Tracks Investments CEO Michael Cianchette commented: “Building something new is always a challenge, but great teams make great things possible. This is an exciting venture for Maine’s harness racing industry, Wabanaki tribes, and sports fans across the state to access a new entertainment venue.

“We’re excited for whatever comes next and look forward to providing sustainable, responsible opportunities.”

Caesars Sportsbook has offered sports wagering on mobile and desktop in Maine since launching in November 2023, through its partnership with three of the Wabanaki Nations: the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Mi’kmaq Nation and the Penobscot Nation.

Maine’s regulated sports betting market generated total wagers of $35.6 million in August, with DraftKings holding 85 per cent of the total at $30.1 million, compared to Caesars' $5.5 million.

Shares in Caesars Entertainment Inc (NASDAQ:CZR) closed 6.41 per cent higher at $38.87 per share in New York Friday.