Rhode Island’s tight grip on sports betting through a single operator may soon loosen, as state regulators and lawmakers explore the possibility of allowing more sportsbook platforms into the market. The Rhode Island Lottery recently issued a request for information (RFI) to gauge industry interest—and eight major betting firms responded.
Among those expressing interest were Bally’s, Fanatics, Kambi, DraftKings, BetMGM, OpenBet, and FanDuel. The state’s current operator, International Game Technology (IGT), also submitted feedback. IGT has managed Rhode Island’s lone betting app, Sportsbook RI, since 2019, and holds an exclusive contract through November 2026.
While the current setup gives IGT full control, the Lottery is now examining the feasibility of bringing more apps into the fold. “Lottery is moving ahead with its examination of whether adding more apps is feasible,” said spokesperson Paul Grimaldi. He noted that a formal request for proposals could be issued later this month.
Fanatics publicly stated its support for an “open and competitive market” in Rhode Island. Bally’s, headquartered in Providence, also reiterated its interest in participating should the market open up. Other companies either declined to comment or did not respond.
Legislative Push for Competition Stalls—for Now
Although a bill backed by Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone sought to allow up to five betting operators by July 2026, it stalled in the House. DraftKings had supported the effort, but companion legislation introduced by Rep. Matthew Dawson failed to progress out of committee.
The proposed legislation would have prevented the state from renewing IGT’s contract after July 2026, and instead required the issuance of at least five new sportsbook licenses. While momentum has slowed, lawmakers have a history of passing gambling measures late in the legislative calendar.
Still, multiple challenges persist. Rhode Island’s sports betting market has seen declining profits despite a slight increase in overall handle. In 2024, bettors wagered nearly $484 million—up from 2023—but far below the 2022 high of $532.6 million. More troubling, the state’s profit dropped to just $19.2 million in FY 2024, down nearly 25% from the year prior.
A report from the Auditor General cited stiff competition from neighboring states like Massachusetts and Connecticut, which offer top-tier platforms such as DraftKings and FanDuel, and more attractive wagering experiences.
Sen. Ciccone pointed to frequent user complaints about the Sportsbook RI app as one motivation for his bill, including limited bet types and user interface issues.
Survey Shows R.I. Lags Behind in Sports Betting Enthusiasm
A University of New Hampshire survey conducted in late September revealed that Rhode Island residents are among the least active sports bettors in New England. Only 15% of surveyed Rhode Islanders reported betting on sports at least occasionally—lower than Massachusetts (18%) and Connecticut (17%).
Providence College professor Patrick Kelly doubts that expanding vendor options will bring a significant revenue surge. “I don’t think it’s going to be much of a game changer,” he said.
However, he expressed concern over increased marketing from multiple platforms, especially toward younger adults. Rhode Island permits betting at age 18, compared to 21 in neighboring states, which could attract college students across state lines.
Source:
“R.I.’s sportsbook market may open up to competition next year. Here’s who’s waiting in the wings”, rhodeislandcurrent.com, October 8, 2025
The post Rhode Island Eyes End to Sports Betting Monopoly in 2026 first appeared on RealMoneyAction.com.