DC Sports Betting Woes: Complaints Of Bad Odds And Horrible Service

Legal sports betting has finally arrived in Washington, DC.

GambetDC, backed by the DC Lottery, is finally live on your browser, following a launch delay caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Android and iOS apps are set to be released in the near future.

Typically, the inception of a fresh market is a reason to rejoice. Yet, when it comes to GambetDC, doubters are closely monitoring the situation.

The new sports betting venture is being plagued by technical glitches, unfavorable odds, and the absence of major sporting events.

Technical glitches abound during DC sports betting launch

DC sports betting customers were experiencing difficulties in verifying their location while attempting to place bets, as reported by the Washington Post.

GeoComply, the geolocation service provider for GambetDC, has the responsibility of verifying that every bettor using GambetDC is located within the borders of Washington, DC.

The software is claimed to be functioning properly by GeoComply representatives. Nevertheless, individuals who are “near the border” or federal land might face challenges in verifying their location.

According to Nicole Jordan, the marketing and communications director for the DC Lottery, bettors can effectively determine their location within authorized regions.

The geosensing technology at launch is deliberately programmed to be extremely strict, but it’s not a major issue.

The initial width of the buffer zone surrounding federal land and borders will be increased during the launch phase. As data is gathered and the software adjusts to user preferences, these buffer zones will gradually reduce in size.

DC sports betting customers beware

Aside from technical glitches, the presence of competition poses a bigger and potentially more enduring problem that could limit sports betting activity in DC.

Intralot, the service provider for the city’s lottery products, was granted the sports betting contract by the DC Lottery without an open bidding process. This decision has led to initial difficulties for bettors.

Bettors may face long-term disadvantages such as higher vig, unfavorable odds, and a greater house edge due to the absence of competition. This puts them at a disadvantage compared to states that have multiple sports betting operators.

However, there is a possibility of change in the future. The current DC sports betting law permits sports betting to take place at stadiums and sports bars. As a matter of fact, William Hill Sportsbook is currently in the process of seeking approval to establish the inaugural sportsbook at a prominent sporting arena location.

The application submitted by William Hill for operation at Capital One Arena is presently being reviewed. Additionally, FanDuel Sportsbook and Newgioco have intentions to commence their operations in Washington D.C.

Don’t jump to conclusions too quickly, as the arrival of William Hill in the market may not necessarily lead to improved odds at GambetDC.

In other regions across the United States, online or mobile betting apps are the primary means for engaging in sports betting. However, when it comes to the available options in this area, GambetDC stands as the sole online platform.

DC sports betting customers may have to pay a hefty price for that convenience.

Virginia sports betting could be the real winner

Starting from July 1, the Virginia sports betting law will come into effect, thus paving the way for the potential launch of online sports betting in VA by year-end.

This could potentially be the positive development that DC bettors have been longing for.

Bettors in DC may find less attractive odds online compared to the VA sports betting market due to increased competition.

Bettors can easily access these odds by taking a quick drive across the Potomac. Considering the betting limitations in the border buffer and federal land, it may be more convenient for many bettors to simply visit Virginia.

GambetDC may be compelled to take action due to a competitive VA sports betting market.

While direct online betting competition may be absent, the presence of competition from stadiums, sports bars, and neighboring establishments is highly likely.