Fairmount Park, in partnership with FanDuel, has received a go ahead to be become a racino in Illinois. This development comes as the majority see further restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) granted Fairmount Park a Master Sports Wagering License at a October 29 special meeting. It’s also agreed to give the track a “preliminary suitable” status to add casino games. The decision, which will allow the park to operate as FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing, makes FanDuel the first sportsbook to offer betting at multiple retail venues in the state.

Melissa Helton, President and General Manager of Fairmount Park, noted declining interest in horse racing a reason for applying for the licenses. “I am telling you this to communicate how significant this opportunity is for the company and all its people impacted,” she said. “The gaming bill giving us the right to apply to become a racino along with the sports wagering opportunity has been the biggest event to move Illinois horse racing back to what it once was and forward to greater heights.”

Eight of Illinois’ 10 casinos are operating under reduced daily hours and new capacity limits amid rising COVID-19 positivity rates in most state regions.