BetMGM today announced partnerships with Gila River Hotels & Casinos and the Arizona Cardinals for retail and online sports betting, establishing its first relationships in the state of Arizona. BetMGM plans to bring its industry-leading platform online once sports betting is legalized in Arizona. The company also plans to open retail sports betting at the three Arizona Gila River properties and State Farm Stadium, home of the Cardinals.

“This is a great opportunity to strengthen our long-standing relationship with Gila River and start a new one with BetMGM,” said Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill. “They are first-rate partners whose excellence and expertise in this emerging space will provide a new and innovative way to engage and interact with our fans.”

BetMGM plans to open a BetMGM Sportsbook at State Farm Stadium, with a targeted opening in time for the 2022 NFL season.

Gila River Hotels & Casinos operates three properties in Arizona, all owned by the Gila River Indian community: Wild Horse Pass, Lone Butte, and Vee Quiva. All three will feature custom-built BetMGM sports betting, which is expected to open as the football season approaches, reflecting its sports-centric brand.

“Arizona sports fans are extremely passionate and we have no doubts that they will enjoy the BetMGM experience,” said Adam Greenblatt, CEO of BetMGM. “Gila River Hotels & Casinos and the Arizona Cardinals are the state’s premier casino and sports franchise destinations, making them ideal partners for us. “

According to Gila River Hotels & Casino CEO Kenneth Manuel, “Gila River Hotels & Casinos and the Arizona Cardinals have an everlasting partnership, providing guests with exclusive experiences and remarkable rewards. As we explore our partner in sports betting, unity with BetMGM, The King of Sportsbooks, ensures that we deliver beyond all expectations. There is no doubt in my mind that these three industry leading brands come together to deliver the ultimate Arizona sports betting experience, consolidating Gila River Hotels & Casinos as Arizona’s sports headquarters. “

Stephen Lewis, Governor of the Gila River Indian Community, added: “This is an excellent development, and I want to thank Ken and his team for once again leading the way for our community through this innovative partnership with our great friends, the Cardinals and our new partner BetMGM. Building on the successful launch of our new table games at the Wild Horse Pass, this new sports betting operation will now continue our successful implementation of our historic new Compact agreement.