Legal Framework of Sports Betting in Delaware
Delaware holds a unique position in the United States sports betting landscape as one of the earliest adopters of legalized sports wagering outside Nevada. The state’s sports betting framework stems from its exemption under the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992. Following the repeal of PASPA by the Supreme Court in 2018, Delaware leveraged its existing legal provisions to launch full-scale sports betting. Oversight is managed by the Delaware Lottery, which regulates licensing, operations, and compliance to ensure fair play and consumer protection.
Authorized Sports Betting Venues
Delaware operates a state-controlled sports betting model, with betting available exclusively through licensed land-based venues. The three primary sportsbooks in the state are:
- Delaware Park – Located in Wilmington, offering a comprehensive sportsbook facility alongside casino gaming and horse racing.
- Dover Downs Hotel & Casino – Situated in the capital city, providing sports betting alongside a hotel, casino, and entertainment amenities.
- Harrington Raceway & Casino – Located in Harrington, featuring sports betting terminals in addition to harness racing and casino operations.
These venues accept wagers on professional and college sports, excluding in-state collegiate teams to comply with local regulations.
Available Betting Options
Sportsbooks in Delaware provide a broad range of betting formats, including:
- Moneyline Bets – Simple wagers on which team will win.
- Point Spread Bets – Betting on the margin of victory or defeat.
- Totals (Over/Under) – Wagering on combined points scored.
- Parlays and Teasers – Multiple selections combined for higher payouts.
- Futures Bets – Long-term wagers on events such as championships.
While the state offers diverse betting options, Delaware does not currently support mobile or online sports betting beyond limited parlay cards, meaning all single-game wagers must be placed in person.
Economic Impact of Sports Betting
Sports betting has contributed significantly to Delaware’s gaming revenue. The state’s model channels a portion of proceeds toward public programs, infrastructure, and education. Revenue growth has been steady due to Delaware’s early market entry, although competition from neighboring states with mobile wagering has influenced the pace of expansion.
Responsible Gambling Measures
Delaware enforces strict responsible gambling protocols, including:
- Mandatory self-exclusion programs.
- Clear display of helpline numbers in betting areas.
- Training for sportsbook staff in identifying problem gambling behaviors.
- State-supported counseling and rehabilitation services.
These measures aim to balance revenue generation with consumer welfare.
Summary
Delaware’s sportsbooks represent a controlled yet effective model of legalized sports betting, relying on physical venues regulated by the Delaware Lottery. While the absence of full online betting limits market reach, the state maintains a stable and secure sports wagering environment that benefits both the economy and the public.
