TwinSpires Refuses to Comply with Shut Down Order in Michigan

A showdown between a sports betting regulator and operator is unfolding in the Wolverine State.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has ordered TwinSpires to immediately cease advance deposit wagering (ADW) operations in the state. The order comes after the state requested operators offering this form of horse betting to cease operations before 2025. While wagering on horse racing has been legal for decades, Michigan law only allows ADW options for races conducted within the state.

TwinSpires acknowledged and ignored the original request from the MGCB, which led to its becoming an official order.

Michigan Closed Last Licensed Track in 2023

The issue between TwinSpires and the MGCB centers on Michigan's lack of licensed race tracks. The state’s last licensed track, Northville Downs, closed almost a year ago.

According to the Michigan Horse Racing Law of 1995, ADW operations are only allowed for races run at tracks within the state. With Northville Downs ceasing operations, the MGCB demanded that all four ADW platforms follow suit. Three of the four complied, but TwinSpires ignored the order and continued to operate.

MGCB Sets Hearing to Review Decision

With TwinSpires failing to comply with the shutdown request, the MGCB is now exploring other legal options. That will begin with a hearing to review the regulator's decision. Michigan’s law on ADW operations will also be reviewed to confirm that the MGCB has interpreted it correctly.

If the hearing finds the decision correct, it could lead to penalties for TwinsSpires. Refusal to cease operations could lead to massive fines and damage the operator’s reputation nationwide. 

There is a chance TwinSpires could be vindicated by the hearing. The law is 30 years old and was created well before PASPA was overturned and sports betting became legal. 

Regardless of the outcome of the hearing, it appears legal action is all but certain.

TwinSpires Fighting to Retain Presence in State

Things have not been going well for TwinSpires. Their foray into sports betting has fallen flare, but the horse racing platform continues to be one of the best in the industry. 

TwinSpires previously offered an online sportsbook and casino in Michigan. However, the operators could not compete in both industries, so they decided to cease operations. This left the company with only horse racing, which it is now fighting hard to keep in one of the nation’s top markets.