U.K. sportsbook operator Betfred will close down its online sports betting operations in the Keystone State on July 31, marking the end of the British bookmaker’s efforts to build a digital presence in the U.S.
The operator partnered with Wind Creek Bethlehem casino, though it’s unclear whether Betfred will keep managing the retail sportsbook on-site.
Key takeaways
- Betfred is closing its Pennsylvania online sportsbook July 31.
- The exit follows sustained financial losses for the operator.
- The move follows other European brands, 888 Holdings and Betway, which also left the U.S. market recently.
The company already stopped accepting new online wagers in Pennsylvania. Existing players will be able to settle bets and use early cashout options through the end of the month, and the operator will pay unsettled wagers after that via mailed checks.
Betfred’s retreat from the Keystone State follows its exit from Iowa and Washington in late 2024, where it had both online and retail operations. It also pulled the plug on its sportsbooks in Arizona, Colorado, Ohio, Maryland, and Virginia due to an inability to gain a competitive foothold.
Entering 2025, only Pennsylvania and Nevada remained as Betfred’s active U.S. markets. But the company folded its Nevada retail operation in January, and now Pennsylvania is closing too. Betfred hasn't issued any statement, but this seems part of a trend for international brands.
Super Group, Tipico, and 888 also leave citing lack of profitability
Betfred’s exit isn’t an isolated case. Super Group’s Betway brand, Tipico, and 888 Holdings also scaled back their U.S. ambitions in recent months.
Super Group shuttered Betway’s U.S. sportsbook operations after an internal review found the business model would take too long to reach profitability. Earlier this month, Super Group also said it was pulling its online casino brands from New Jersey and Pennsylvania, citing regulatory costs.
Tipico left the U.S. after LeoVegas, a subsidiary of MGM Resorts, took it over in 2024. The Malta-based operator was active in four states but didn't win significant market share, while 888 Holdings accepted a $50 million penalty to end its joint venture with Authentic Brands Group.
Pennsylvania considers legalizing esports betting amid market shifts
As sportsbooks leave, Pennsylvania lawmakers are trying to shake up the commonwealth's betting landscape. State Rep. Ed Neilson recently introduced HB1636, which would legalize esports betting by changing the definition of sports events to include esports.
HB 1636 defines esports as skill-based competitions involving individual or team video game play. Notably, the bill doesn't yet restrict betting on events involving minors. Some esports competitors are as young as 13, and Pennsylvania currently prohibits wagers on high school player props.
Neilson argues the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) should have the flexibility to adapt the state's betting catalog to emerging trends like esports. Whether the bill gains traction remains to be seen, but it signals a willingness to expand beyond traditional betting markets just as legacy brands walk away.
