With Super Bowl LIX driving sports betting participation in the US, expected to set a new wagering record, Yogonet caught up with Ray Pineault, President and CEO of Mohegan, to learn more about the company’s approach to the vertical, changing consumer behavior, how sportsbooks are evolving beyond traditional betting, and more.
What are your expectations for Super Bowl LIX, given the record amounts Americans have been wagering on the event year after year?
Super Bowl LIX is shaping up to be another significant event for the regulated sports betting industry. Last year, we saw record-breaking wagering activity, and with the continued expansion of legalized sports betting across the U.S., we expect to see even greater engagement this year.
As more states introduce mobile platforms and AI-driven personalization enhances the betting experience, the industry continues to evolve in exciting ways. At Mohegan, we see this as another step in the mainstream adoption of regulated betting, reinforcing its economic impact while ensuring responsible gaming remains a priority
How is Mohegan preparing for the event, and how will its proposition appeal to fans seeking to bet on the Super Bowl?
At Mohegan, the Super Bowl isn’t just a game – it’s an experience. Our FanDuel-powered sportsbook is fully prepared to accommodate high-volume wagering, both online and in-person, ensuring a seamless and engaging betting environment. At Mohegan Sun, we’re offering an immersive Big Game experience that goes beyond sports betting. Fans can enjoy premium seating at our Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook, which boasts the largest video wall in the Northeast, as well as a high-energy pre-game party featuring live entertainment and a buffet with stadium classics. Additionally, our top dining and nightlife venues, including novelle, MJ23 Sports Bar & Grill, and Comix Roadhouse, will feature exclusive game-day specials.
These activations are part of our larger strategy to create an environment where guests can enjoy a world-class entertainment experience alongside their wagers. Whether they’re placing bets, enjoying the game with friends, or taking advantage of our premium hospitality offerings, we want Mohegan to be the ultimate Super Bowl destination. AI-driven personalization, responsible gaming tools, and exclusive promotions further enhance our offerings, ensuring that every guest has an unforgettable experience during one of the biggest sports betting moments of the year.
In which ways have Mohegan’s betting products evolved to suit the preferences of bettors? Are there any major trends gaining momentum?
The sports betting landscape is evolving rapidly, and Mohegan has continued to adapt to meet the preferences of today’s bettors. One of the most significant shifts we’ve seen is the explosive growth of live betting and micro-markets, where bettors can place wagers in real-time based on game developments. This shift from traditional pre-game wagers to dynamic, in-play betting has transformed how fans engage with sports.
Same-game parlays and prop bets are also seeing remarkable growth, particularly around key player performances. Fans are increasingly drawn to player-specific bets, such as MVP wagers and touchdown scorers, as they provide a more personalized and strategic way to participate in the game.
Additionally, AI-driven personalization is enhancing the overall betting experience by curating promotions, bet recommendations, and user-friendly interfaces that align with individual preferences and betting habits. These innovations help create a more engaging and seamless experience for players.
As the market continues to mature, responsible gaming remains a top priority. At Mohegan, we are leveraging AI to monitor betting patterns and flag potential signs of problem gaming, ensuring that we provide the necessary tools and interventions to promote safe and responsible play.
Does Mohegan’s longstanding presence in entertainment and hospitality open new ways to engage bettors beyond traditional wagering?
Absolutely. Mohegan has a unique advantage in integrating sports betting with a broader entertainment and hospitality experience. Our properties are designed to offer much more than just a sportsbook; they serve as immersive entertainment destinations where guests can enjoy world-class dining, live music, nightlife, and premium accommodations, all within the same visit.
For major sporting events like the Super Bowl, we create an elevated experience that goes beyond traditional wagering. VIP lounges, live entertainment, and curated dining promotions provide fans with a social, engaging atmosphere where betting is just one part of the larger experience. AI-driven engagement tools and gamification elements further enhance the connection between our guests and the brand, offering loyalty integrations and interactive promotions that keep bettors engaged beyond a single event.
Cross-marketing opportunities also play a significant role. Many guests who visit our sportsbooks are introduced to other aspects of our resort, from gaming and entertainment to fine dining and spa experiences. This holistic approach not only increases overall guest satisfaction but also deepens brand loyalty, ensuring that visitors return for future events.
Where do you see the market headed, including more legal betting expansion and new regulations? How prepared is Mohegan to navigate this landscape?
The momentum behind sports betting legalization in the U.S. shows no signs of slowing down. With more states considering regulation, we expect to see continued expansion, offering new opportunities for operators like Mohegan to grow their footprint. However, alongside this growth comes increased scrutiny and regulation, particularly around advertising practices, responsible gaming, and player protections.
We are well-positioned to navigate this evolving landscape. Our longstanding commitment to regulatory compliance and player safety ensures that we remain ahead of the curve as new policies emerge. Additionally, we are closely monitoring the integration of blockchain technology and AI in the betting space, as these innovations have the potential to further enhance transparency, security, and player engagement.
Looking ahead, we see the sports betting industry continuing to evolve into a more immersive, interactive, and personalized experience. Mohegan will remain at the forefront by investing in new technology, expanding our partnerships, and ensuring that we provide best-in-class experiences for our guests.
