Key Moments:
- Arizona’s sports betting handle hit $851 million in September, marking a 16.3 percent increase year-over-year.
- Online platforms accounted for $847 million of total wagers, with DraftKings and Crown Gaming leading the digital market.
- The state collected $1.9 million in privilege fees, while tribal gaming contributions for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 rose to $46.2 million.
Robust Growth Driven by Digital Wagering
According to figures provided by the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG), the state’s sports betting sector recorded significant growth in September. Total handle reached $851 million, up 16.3 percent year-over-year, setting a strong pace for the remainder of the fiscal year. Activity was principally fueled by online channels, which generated $847 million of the month’s total handle, illustrating bettors’ preference for mobile platforms.
Market Share Concentrated Among Leading Operators
Within the digital marketplace, DraftKings and Crown Gaming led with $268.2 million in wagers, maintaining their position at the forefront of the Arizona betting landscape. FanDuel remained a close competitor, posting $254.5 million in online action, while BetMGM followed with $97.8 million. Retail sportsbooks generated a more modest $4.4 million, with DraftKings and Crown Gaming accounting for $3 million and Caesars (American Wagering) reporting $810,080. These figures reinforce the dominance of a select group of operators both online and at physical locations.
| Operator | Online Handle ($ millions) | Retail Handle ($) |
|---|---|---|
| DraftKings & Crown Gaming | 268.2 | 3,000,000 |
| FanDuel | 254.5 | – |
| BetMGM | 97.8 | – |
| Caesars (American Wagering) | – | 810,080 |
State Revenue and Tribal Contributions Maintain Upward Trajectory
Total winnings paid out to players amounted to $794.3 million, resulting in $1.9 million in privilege fees received by Arizona. This outcome underscores the consistency of wagering volumes and supports the state’s reliable revenue stream. Additionally, the ADG stated that tribal gaming contributions reached $46.2 million for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, representing an approximate 5 percent increase year-over-year. The sustained growth in contributions highlights ongoing engagement in tribal gaming activities.
Operator Dominance and Regulatory Developments Shape the Market
DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM continued to define market dynamics during September, with top brands maintaining their leadership in both digital and brick-and-mortar segments. Online wagering remained the principal driver of activity, though retail outlets provided a complementary presence within the market. The ADG also announced a leadership change, appointing Shannon Nelson as the new director of its racing division, while Nelson retains responsibilities as deputy director of regulation. This appointment reflects continued efforts to uphold regulatory standards across sports betting, racing, and tribal gaming.
Momentum Continues into Q4
Arizona has entered the final quarter with a stable and expanding sports wagering ecosystem. The ongoing rise in handle, operator performance, and tribal contributions all point toward strong market health as the fiscal year progresses. As operators prepare for upcoming sporting events and promotional activities, September’s performance establishes a benchmark for the period ahead. With mobile betting remaining the preferred option for most players and retail outlets serving a supporting role, Arizona is well-placed for ongoing sector growth.
- Author
Daniel Williams
