The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) is taking action against TwinSpires for allegedly violating the state’s gaming laws concerning advance deposit wagering.
The MGCB has handed TwinSpires a summary suspension order after the horse racing and casino company failed to comply with a cease and desist letter sent in December 2024. The letter, which was also sent to Xpressbet, NYRAbets and TVG Network (FanDuel Racing), detailed how the companies have violated Michigan gaming laws and the Horse Racing Law of 1995.
Active statutory requirements in Michigan prohibit advance deposit wagering due to ADW operators needing to partner with a live race meet and a licensed track. Despite this requirement, there are no tracks in Michigan that are licensed to hold live horse racing.
In February 2024, the state’s last horse racing track, Northville Downs, closed.
As a result, the MGCB has determined that advance deposit wagering is unlawful.
Xpressbet, NYRAbets and TVG Network complied with the MGCB’s order but TwinSpires failed to comply and continued to offer advance deposit wagering to Michigan residents.
“On Dec. 23, 2024, the MGCB notified all licensed third-party facilitators to cease all ADW account wagering services for Michigan residents effective Jan. 1, 2025,” said the MGCB in a press release. “Despite this directive, on Dec. 31, TwinSpires informed the board that it would continue to offer ADW for Michigan accounts, in violation of state law.”
The MGCB has requested a hearing for TwinSpires before an administrative law judge. The hearing will determine whether TwinSpires’ suspension should continue or whether the gambling and entertainment giant will face a series of fines or other penalties.
SBC Americas reached out to TwinSpires owner Churchill Downs for comment on the matter but the Kentucky-based company has yet to respond to the request.
TwinSpires joins offshore operators
TwinSpires has added to the list of recent cease and desist letters sent in Michigan
Last May, the MGCB sent a cease and desist letter to Bovada ordering the Costa-Rica-based operator to stop accepting customers from Michigan or else face legal action.
The MGCB claimed Bovada violated the Lawful Internet Gaming Act and the Michigan Penal Code for providing residents in the state with access to an offshore sportsbook.
Last October, the MGCB sent cease and desist letters to Costa Rican gaming companies Ace23 and Ace Per Head ordering them to also stop taking Michigan customers. That same month, the regulator sent a letter to Papaya Gaming for alleged illegal gambling activities.
