Alberta is gearing up for a major shift in its sports betting landscape, as eight high-profile online sportsbooks have officially registered to launch in the province. According to the latest update from the Alberta Liquor and Gaming Commission, a total of 28 online gaming operators have been approved, with the biggest names in the industry leading the charge.
Starting July 13, Alberta will become the second Canadian province—after Ontario—to offer regulated online casino and sports betting. The lineup of sportsbooks ready to go live includes BallyBet, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet-Canada, and theScore Bet. Notably absent from the list is Fanatics Betting & Gaming, which has yet to launch in Ontario as well. For those who prefer the government-run option, PlayAlberta will continue to operate, and the regulator plans to transition gray market operators into the fold, meaning even more platforms could be on the way.
Behind the scenes, the technical backbone of this new market is equally impressive. IGT and Light and Wonder are among the 22 "Critical Gaming Service Providers" that had registered as of May 1, ensuring a smooth and secure betting experience for users.
This launch comes at an exciting time for sports fans. Alberta's entry into regulated online betting coincides with the final week of the FIFA World Cup, which is being hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The championship match is set for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York. For Canadian football enthusiasts, the first CFL game you can bet on will be the Calgary Stampede's matchup against the Montreal Alouettes on July 18. With Calgary being the third-largest city in Canada and home to the NHL Flames and CFL Stampede, the local sports scene is buzzing with anticipation.
The provincial government projects that online gambling will generate CAD $100 million in annual tax revenue—a significant boost for Alberta's economy. Several operators are already accepting pre-registrations, including BetRivers, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, and theScore Bet. In another exciting development, operators can now advertise via Google Ads following a policy change announced on Monday, making it easier for fans to find and join their preferred platforms.
Whether you're a seasoned bettor or new to the game, Alberta's regulated market promises a safe, competitive, and thrilling experience. Get ready to place your bets—the countdown to July 13 has begun!