Churchill Downs’ TwinSpires has been hit with a suspension order by the Michigan gambling regulator for not complying with requests to cease advance deposit wagering (ADW).
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) said TwinSpires has continued to operate ADW despite three other companies stopping such operations.
The regulator said a virtual hearing involving an Administrative Law Judge will decide whether other fines and penalties are necessary, or whether the suspension order should continue.
Simulcast and ADW wagering “must be tied” to a live race meet and a licensed track, of which there are none in Michigan, the MGCB said.
“For ADW providers to legally offer these wagers, a track license must first be approved by the MGCB,” it added.
FanDuel Group’s TVG as well as Xpressbet, and NYRAbets all stopped offering ADW after an order from the regulator, it said.
“On December 23, 2024, the MGCB notified all licensed third-party facilitators to cease all ADW account wagering services for Michigan residents effective January 1, 2025.
“Despite this directive, on December 31, 2024, TwinSpires informed the board that it would continue to offer account wagering for Michigan accounts, in violation of state law.
“TwinSpires’ continued violation of legal regulations prompted the MGCB to intervene and enforce compliance with the established laws governing simulcast racing by issuing the summary suspension order.”
