William Hill takes over Circus Circus sportsbook

William Hill is expanding its US footprint with the takeover of sports betting operations at the storied Circus Circus Casino in Las Vegas. It’s yet another sign that UK operators are looking to the expanding US sports betting market to help cover the hits they’re taking under severe new regulatory burdens in the UK.
The move coincides with the sale of Circus Circus to MGM Resorts by its most recent owner Phil Ruffin. It’s a deal that’s going to cost MGM Resorts $825 million for a resort casino complex that has seen better days, but has drawn families to the Las Vegas Strip for more than half a century.
In a statement on their official website, William Hill officials described their plans for renovating the sportsbook at Circus Circus saying, “The sports book will be renovated after the Super Bowl, with plans for a grand opening celebration ahead of the 2019/2020 March Madness College Basketball Tournament. The remodeled space will feature updated video screens, odds boards, seating, and more.”
In a separate statement, Joe Asher, CEO of William Hill US talked about the iconic property saying, “Circus Circus is a Las Vegas landmark with more than 50 years of history. The north end of The Strip has so many new and updated offerings opening over the next few years and we’re excited to plant another flag in this part of town.”
William Hill, and other UK operators, have been expanding their presence in the US market as part of an effort to stay ahead of the regulatory noose that’s choking operators in their native land.