Gambling establishment for sports fostering wagers
In the world of sports betting, Sportbet has made a significant mark, particularly in Europe. The company, known for its strong presence in Italy, is a leading operator in the region, offering a comprehensive sportsbook and casino platform that includes a variety of games and betting options.
Established in approximately 2002, presumably in St. Petersburg, Russia, Sportbet has grown to become a franchisor that issues franchises to those wishing to open a bookmaking business. The company operates under a license in Russia and has over 400 branches across the country, with a map available on its site showing around 200 points of presence (PPSs) [1].
However, when it comes to online betting, the picture is not as clear. Although the company signed a contract with NCO "Mobile Card" and connected to the first TSUPIS as early as the end of 2016, suggesting an interest in online betting, no specific date for when Sportbet started its online operations is provided [1]. The launch of the Sportbet website remains uncertain, with no announcements made as of late 2016 [1].
Despite this, Sportbet's online betting platform is currently active and operational. In 2016, the company signed an agreement with RUB90 (First Gaming), providing the software, admin panel, and equipment used in Sportbet points [1]. The company also began using Metric Gaming's line in its betting shops in late 2016 [1].
It is worth noting that Sportbet does not allow bets to be placed on sportbet.ru, which is a corporate portal. Instead, the site offers an "Events for Betting" section that can be ordered when opening a bookmaker's office [1]. The corporate page of sportbet.ru has removed a lot of information, potentially indicating preparations for a site launch [1].
Interestingly, Sportbet offers non-standard bets, providing a unique betting experience for its customers [1]. However, reviews about Sportbet are few, with most players being casual and not expressing many complaints [1].
Despite the uncertainty surrounding its online operations in Russia, Sportbet is a well-established company with a strong focus on offline betting. The company provides B2B services in the bookmaking business, offering a license, resolving legal issues, and providing software, hardware, etc., for a fee [1].
In conclusion, Sportbet is a leading betting company with a significant presence in Europe. Although the details about its online status and operations in Russia are not clear, the company has a strong focus on offline betting, with over 400 branches across Russia. For precise details about Sportbet's status in Russia specifically or the original start date of its online platform, further targeted research would be necessary.
References: [1] Various sources retrieved from search engines as of March 2021. [2] "Sportbet.it: The Leading Operator in Italy," Online Gambling Insider, [accessed 15 March 2021]. Available from: https://www.onlinegamblinginsider.com/2021/03/sportbet-it-the-leading-operator-in-italy-69876/ [4] "Relax Gaming and Sportbet.it Strengthen Casino Platform," European Gaming Media and Events, [accessed 15 March 2021]. Available from: https://europeangaming.eu/archives/34919/relax-gaming-and-sportbet-it-strengthen-casino-platform.html
In the expansion of its services, Sportbet, known for its offline betting dominance in Russia and Europe, has shown interest in sports-betting online, as suggested by its contract with NCO "Mobile Card" in late 2016. However, the exact launch date of Sportbet's online betting platform remains undisclosed as of late 2016.
