Fanatics Sportsbook Fined $10,000 For Rookie Trader Slip-Up

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has imposed a $10,000 fine on Fanatics Sportsbook, as reported by Sports Handle.

The reason? The sportsbook accepted an in-state bet on a Boston College football game — a violation of Massachusetts sports betting regulations. These regulations explicitly prohibit sportsbooks from taking bets on games involving in-state college teams. 

In this case, the prohibited bet was placed on December 5, 2023, for a game scheduled on December 28. Fortunately, the bettor’s $50 stake was refunded well before kickoff.

The relatively modest penalty stems from the sportsbook’s swift action in identifying the mistake and promptly notifying the regulator.

Fanatics Sportsbook attributed the error to a rookie trader — a new employee working on football matches.

Meanwhile, in a separate matter, two Massachusetts bettors previously filed a lawsuit against DraftKings, alleging misleading bonus advertisements.