Arkansas sports betting is entering its main character era. Following a unanimous vote by the Arkansas Racing Commission on February 26, 2026, industry giants FanDuel and DraftKings have officially touched down in the state. If you’ve been waiting for a better lineup of apps, the wait is finally over—and it’s giving major W for local bettors.
The new landscape
Here is the tea: DraftKings has linked up with Southland Casino Hotel, taking over the slot previously held by Betly. Meanwhile, FanDuel is officially live through a partnership with Oaklawn Casino. The Oaklawn Sports app is getting a glow-up and will now be powered by FanDuel. While these big players joined the chat, Saracen Casino Resort is keeping it independent with its own BETSaracen app.
One thing that hasn't changed? The state’s unique revenue-sharing model. All third-party apps must still roll with a 51%-49% split that favors the local casinos.
More ways to play
Beyond traditional books, Arkansas residents can also tap into federally regulated prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket. These platforms let you trade contracts on event outcomes, and they are fully legal in the state.
Whether you’re looking at NFL, NBA, or college sports player props, the options are wide open. You can even bet on awards like MLB MVP or NFL Coach of the Year, which is lowkey a huge perk compared to other states. Just a heads up: you don't need to live in Arkansas to bet, but you do need to be physically within state lines when you place your wager.
Why it matters
The arrival of these heavy hitters finally resolves the limited competition that held the market back for years. With millions in tax revenue already flowing into the state’s Purse and Awards Fund, the expansion shows just how serious Arkansas is about its sports wagering economy. If you’re getting in on the action, play smart—resources like the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-MY-RESET) are available if the vibes ever get off.
