Betting News 
Maine officially entered the in-person sports betting arena on Friday, September 13, with the first legal sports bet placed at Oddfellahs, a downtown Portland sportsbook powered by Caesars Sportsbook. This significant launch marks a new chapter in the state’s gambling landscape.
Caesars Launches In-Person Sports Betting in Portland
The launch of the Caesars Sportsbook at Oddfellahs is the result of a partnership between Caesars and First Tracks Investments LLC. The Portland sports bar now offers both self-service betting kiosks and a ticket window, allowing customers to place bets in person. Additionally, bettors can deposit and withdraw funds from their Caesars Sportsbook mobile accounts at the venue.
Michael Cianchette, CEO of First Tracks Investments, expressed excitement over the launch:
“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.”
First Bet and Ceremonial Event
The ceremonial first bet at the sportsbook was placed by Portland Mayor Mark Dion, who bet $20 on the Los Angeles Chargers to beat the Carolina Panthers. With the Chargers listed as -250 favorites, Mayor Dion’s bet resulted in a total payout of $28 when the Chargers won the game 26-3.
Representatives from Caesars Sportsbook, First Tracks, the Portland City Council, and the Maine Gambling Control Unit joined Mayor Dion for the event. Eric Hession, President of Caesars Digital, extended his gratitude to local and state officials for making the launch possible, highlighting the potential for further collaboration with First Tracks to expand in-person sports betting in the state.
Maine Sports Betting Developments
The launch in Portland follows the success of mobile sports betting in Maine, which began with Caesars‘ partnership with three of the Wabanaki Nations. With in-person sports betting now operational, Maine is poised for further growth in the sports gambling industry.
However, not all news in Maine’s gambling scene has been positive. Milton Champion, the head of the Maine Gambling Control Unit, has come under scrutiny. Members of the Maine Service Employees Association, including the state’s nine casino inspectors, signed a “vote of no confidence” against Champion. The inspectors raised concerns over his leadership, accusing him of making decisions that could compromise the Gambling Control Unit’s ability to regulate Maine casinos effectively and transparently.
Champion, who has faced previous challenges, including a temporary leave for inappropriate social media posts, continues to face criticism from within the industry.
