Arizona regulators are preparing to award additional event wagering licenses, with the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) announcing a new application period that will begin next month.

The agency confirmed that it will start accepting applications on June 26, 2026, with the submission window remaining open until July 10 at 5 p.m. Arizona time. The move creates an opportunity for new operators to enter one of the largest sports betting markets in the United States following a series of sportsbook closures and industry consolidation that reduced the number of active license holders.

The upcoming licensing round will make available at least one license reserved for an Arizona tribe and at least one license reserved for an Arizona sports franchise partner, in accordance with state regulations governing event wagering.

Cliff Holden, Assistant Director of Certification and Licensing at the ADG, said in a press release [pdf]: “As the state regulator, we remain dedicated to consumer protection and a thorough licensing review process. We look forward to receiving new applications for regulated event wagering.”

Available Licenses Return to Market

Arizona launched legal event wagering and sports betting in 2021 after lawmakers approved a framework allowing up to 20 operator licenses. The legislation divided those licenses equally, reserving ten for Arizona tribes and ten for professional sports franchise partners.

Although the market initially attracted a large number of operators, the number of active licensees has declined over time. Arizona currently has 14 licensed operators, leaving room for additional entrants.

Several sportsbooks have exited the state in recent years as operators reassessed their national strategies. Companies including Betfred, SuperBook Sports, Betway, Fubo Sportsbook, TwinSpires, Unibet and WynnBet have all ceased operations in Arizona. SaharaBets also left the market after losing its sports franchise partner when the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes relocated to Utah.

The ADG periodically reopens the licensing process whenever positions become available. The previous application window took place in July 2024.

State officials emphasized that applications must be submitted during the designated period. Any submissions received after the July 10 deadline will not be considered during this licensing cycle.

Market Continues to Generate Strong Results

Since legal sports betting launched, Arizona has developed into one of the country’s most active wagering markets.

According to figures released by the regulator, bettors have wagered approximately $33.9 billion since 2021. That activity has generated around $179.9 million in event wagering privilege fees for the state.

Arizona’s sports betting industry also produced more than $713 million in betting revenue during 2025. The state’s wagering handle ranks among the largest in the nation and is currently the sixth-highest among U.S. jurisdictions.

The existing operator list includes many of the industry’s largest brands, such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, bet365 and Fanatics.

The licensing process arrives at a time when the broader sports betting industry continues to evolve. Alongside consolidation among traditional sportsbook operators, prediction markets have emerged as a growing area of competition that could influence opportunities for future market participants.

Review Process and Consumer Protection Focus

The Arizona Department of Gaming said all applications will undergo evaluation based on the requirements established in state statutes and event wagering regulations.

Prospective applicants have been encouraged to review the agency’s licensing materials, application forms and fee requirements before submitting documentation. The regulator also directed interested parties to its online resources and frequently asked questions materials for additional guidance.

While expanding the number of licensed operators remains a priority, the department stressed that consumer protection will remain central to the review process.

The ADG oversees tribal gaming, event wagering, fantasy sports contests, racing and pari-mutuel wagering throughout Arizona. The agency also supports responsible gambling programs through its Division of Problem Gambling, including education, treatment and prevention initiatives.