William Hill continues to expand its U.S. presence. Already found in five gambling states, it has now added a sixth when it officially launched a sportsbook in New Mexico last Thursday. The sports gambling operation marks the company’s first in the state, but comes after two other sportsbooks have already been introduced to gamblers in the Land of Enchantment.
William Hill’s new sportsbook is located in the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino, a property operated by the Mescalero Apache Tribe. In-game betting will be available from the sportsbook teller or through kiosks located throughout the resort.
The grand opening saw participation from Holly Holm, a New Mexico native and former UFC champion, who made one of the first bets in the new facility. Also on hand were the president of the Mescalero tribe, Arthur “Butch” Blazer, and the tribe’s VP, Gabe Aguilar. Holm put down $100 for Cris Cyborg to beat Felicia Spencer at UFC 240 and it proved to be a smart move – Cyborg one by decision in Round 3.
William Hill’s President of Retail, David Grolman, said of the new sportsbook, “Working with the Mescalero Apache Tribe and the National Indian Gaming Commission on this partnership agreement was important to us. Inn of the Mountain Gods is one of the premier resorts and casinos in the southwest and together we plan to bring a first-class experience to sports fans in the region.”
The international gambling powerhouse isn’t done moving across the U.S., either. It said earlier this month that it is preparing to open two sportsbooks in Iowa, thanks to a partnership with Eldorado Resorts. The two entities have a close relationship that spans seven years and which allows William Hill to launch sports gambling ventures at all Eldorado properties in states that have legalized sportsbooks.
Iowa’s gaming regulators approved final guidelines for the activity yesterday, which means William Hill’s new venues should be going live ahead of the upcoming NFL season. It should open sportsbooks at Eldorado’s Isle Casino Bettendorf and Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo before September, and is also preparing a third sportsbook for Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Iowa, a property that is owned by the state’s Polk County.
