Arizona plans to reopen the application process for event wagering licenses next month, creating an opportunity for new operators to enter a market that has seen several sportsbook departures in recent years.
The Arizona Department of Gaming announced that it will begin accepting applications on June 26, 2026. The filing period will remain open until July 10 at 5 p.m. Arizona time. State officials said the upcoming round will include at least one license designated for an Arizona Tribe and at least one license designated for an Arizona sports franchise partner.
According to the department, applicants must submit completed materials during the designated period to be considered. The agency also encouraged prospective applicants to review licensing requirements and procedures before applying.
“As the state regulator, we remain dedicated to consumer protection and a thorough licensing review process,” said Cliff Holden, the Department’s Assistant Director of Certification and Licensing. “We look forward to receiving new applications for regulated event wagering.”
Available Licenses Return to Market
Arizona established its legal sports betting framework in 2021, authorizing up to 20 event wagering operator licenses. State law divides those licenses evenly, reserving ten for partnerships with Arizona tribes and ten for partnerships with professional sports franchises in the state.
The Department of Gaming opens application periods when licenses become available. The previous application window took place in July 2024.
At present, Arizona has 14 licensed event wagering operators. The reduction from the maximum authorized number follows a series of sportsbook closures and consolidation across the wider US betting industry.
Several operators have exited the Arizona market in recent years, including Betfred, SuperBook Sports, Betway, Fubo Sportsbooks, TwinSpires, Unibet, and WynnBet. SaharaBets also ceased operations after losing its sports franchise partner when the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes relocated to Utah.
Market Remains Active Despite Industry Changes
While several brands have left the state, Arizona continues to host many of the largest names in US sports betting. Approved operators include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, bet365, and Fanatics.
The state’s betting sector has generated substantial activity since legal wagering launched. Arizona residents and visitors have placed approximately $33.9 billion in wagers since 2021. Those betting volumes have produced about $179.9 million in event wagering privilege fees for the state.
Recent performance figures also highlight the market’s scale. Sports betting revenue in Arizona exceeded $713 million during 2025, while the state ranked sixth nationally in total betting handle.
Industry participants continue to monitor emerging competitive pressures, including the growth of prediction markets, which may influence future opportunities for operators seeking entry into regulated sports wagering.
Review Process and Next Steps
State regulators said all applications submitted during the upcoming window will undergo evaluation under the criteria established by Arizona statutes and event wagering regulations. The review will determine which applicants receive the available licenses.
The Department of Gaming stated that additional information regarding eligibility standards, application procedures, timelines, and frequently asked questions is available through its licensing resources. Officials said the process is designed to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while maintaining consumer protections in Arizona’s sports betting market.
Source:
“Arizona Department of Gaming to Accept New Event Wagering Licenses Applications”, gaming.az.gov. May 27, 2026
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