FanDuel Sportsbook in Illinois To Become Casino Following Sale

In a landmark move that is set to reshape the gaming and entertainment landscape of the greater St. Louis area in Illinois, Accel Entertainment has announced its plans to acquire the FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing venue, along with the Collinsville Horse Track in Collinsville, Illinois. The acquisition, valued at approximately $35 million, will be executed through a stock deal, marking a significant expansion of Accel Entertainment's footprint in the gaming industry.

The FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing venue, currently the only active horse racing site in the region, boasts a robust schedule of 65 race days annually, featuring around 435 horse races. This acquisition not only secures Accel Entertainment's presence in the horse racing domain but also lays the groundwork for the introduction of a new casino at the site, signaling a new era of growth and diversification for the company.

Accel Entertainment's strategic move comes with a vision to enhance the gaming experience in Collinsville. The company plans to invest an additional $85-$95 million beyond the purchase price to develop both temporary and permanent casino facilities.

Key project highlights:

• Temporary casino to open in mid-2025, featuring 200 slot machines and several gaming tables.

• Permanent casino expected between mid-to-late 2027, with 500 slot machines, 24 gaming tables, and a sportsbook.

• Total investment estimated at up to $130 million, combining acquisition and development costs.

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals from the Illinois Racing Board and the Illinois Gaming Board, with the transaction anticipated to close in the fourth quarter of 2024. Accel Entertainment has expressed its excitement to be part of Fairmount Park's centennial anniversary in 2025, underscoring its dedication to preserving and enhancing the storied legacy of the venue.

Leadership and development team:

• RRC Gaming Management LLC to oversee casino development and operations.

• Tony Rodio, former CEO of Caesars Entertainment.

• Holly Gagnon, CEO of HGC Gaming Hospitality.

The acquisition of FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing, along with the Collinsville Horse Track, represents a bold step by Accel Entertainment into the world of single-site gaming assets. It reflects a strategic pivot toward convenience gaming, emphasizing lower capital expenditure, reduced competition, and enhanced player experience.

Accel Entertainment’s move signals a new chapter in Illinois gaming — one that blends legacy, innovation, and strategic expansion for long-term growth.