Downtown Grand Las Vegas sportbook becomes first in US to accept eSports wagers

Following Wednesday’s hearing of the Governor’s Gaming Policy Committee, William Hill, in partnership with the Downtown Grand Las Vegas, has received approval from the Gaming Control Board to accept wagers on this weekend’s IEM Oakland eSports event featuring the video game League of Legends.

This will be the first time wagering on eSports has been legally offered in the U.S.

Earlier this year, Downtown Grand opened a dedicated eSports lounge and began holding weekly competitions for Madden, Street Fighter and Mortal Combat gamers.

“This announcement is a major step toward ensuring Nevada becomes the e-sports capital of the world. By embracing this unique opportunity and incorporating innovation and technology into our gaming industry, we’re expanding the potential of one of our oldest industries,” said Governor Brian Sandoval. “Representatives from William Hill and Downtown Grand have been active partners with the Gaming Policy Committee as we examined e-sports wagering in the State of Nevada. I would like to congratulate them on this approval and commend both companies for their swift work and determination.”

“It has been an honor and a privilege to work closely with Chairman Burnett and the Governor's Gaming Policy Committee to gain collective support for wagering on eSports. This has been an excellent example of a public/private partnership working together to create a new innovative way of gambling which will have a positive impact on State revenues,” said Seth Schorr, Chief Executive Officer of Fifth Street Gaming and Chairman of the Downtown Grand Casino. “We are proud that the Downtown Grand will be the home to the first regulated eSports wager in America. The team at the Downtown Grand has worked hard to establish itself as a truly unique eSports destination.”