Ontario Sports Betting - Best Ontario Sportsbooks in 2024

On April 4, 2022, Ontario made history as a trailblazer of the Canadian online gambling frontier. With a bold move, they became the first province to bring order to the previously uncharted and unregulated market of online sports gambling. Now, the winds of change are blowing across the Ontario sports betting landscape. The province has been buzzing with the arrival of tons of new betting sites, all eager to get their slice of the action. These operators are making their way to the frontlines, seeking licenses to operate in the province and provide legal betting opportunities to Ontario’s players.

And the great news is, they’re coming! In the coming weeks and months, we’ll see an influx of licensed operators into the province, each with its own unique offerings, promotions, and betting markets. This is a major step forward for Ontario’s sports betting community and offers players a wider array of options to choose from.

That’s right, gone are the days of relying on crooked, unlicensed sites with shady operations. Now, players can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with betting on regulated, licensed sites, where their hard-earned cash is protected and their bets are placed in a safe and secure environment.

So get ready, sports fans! The future of Ontario betting is bright, and with so many new operators on the horizon, the excitement has only just begun. Buckle up, and let’s see where this ride takes us!

Ontario’s sports betting market has come a long way since legalization, and in 2024, bettors have more high-quality options than ever.

From user-friendly mobile apps to extensive betting markets and live streaming, the top Ontario betting sites deliver a premium experience for casual and avid bettors alike.

Here’s a list of Ontario sportsbooks that we deem to be the best and why.

Sportsbook	Why You Should Use It
	Wide selection of niche markets (e.g., alpine skiing, beach volleyball, lacrosse, etc.) and unique prop bets like “Minute Madness” for variety seekers.
	Great option for eSports betting with a strong selection of eSports markets and regular promotions.
	New user promotions and competitive odds on major leagues, well-suited for beginners seeking bonuses.
	Excels with its top-rated mobile experience and a vast range of high-value betting features, including live streaming for major events.
	Ideal for bettors who want a straightforward, no-frills sportsbook with accessible live betting options and great Canadian promotions​.
	Variety of bet types and a strong live betting interface, ideal for bettors looking for flexibility.
	Optimized mobile experience and strong user interface, making it a top choice for mobile-first users.
	Created by Torstar, it’s designed with the Ontario bettor in mind, offering a homegrown experience with a focus on informed betting.
	Offers unmatched market variety, extensive live betting options, and innovative features like Bet Builder and cash-out​.

We’ve highlighted some of the top sportsbooks in Ontario, but how do we decide which platforms deserve a spot on our list? Let’s take you behind the scenes of our ranking process, where each sportsbook is assessed on a range of criteria to ensure we’re presenting the most valuable options for bettors.

• Betting Odds and Lines - Competitive odds are crucial. We examine each sportsbook’s odds, comparing them to industry averages to identify those that consistently offer value. Some sportsbooks excel in offering better odds on specific markets, while others maintain competitive lines across the board.
• Variety of Betting Markets - A great sportsbook covers more than just major sports; it offers a diverse array of betting options, including player props, futures, live betting, and niche sports markets. We look for platforms that cater to both mainstream and less common interests, giving bettors flexibility in their choices.
• Ease of Use and User Interface - A sportsbook’s interface directly impacts user experience. We evaluate how intuitive the platform is, from sign-up to placing bets, navigating between sports, and cashing out. An accessible and well-designed interface, especially on mobile, is essential for keeping bettors engaged.
• Deposit and Withdrawal Options - Convenient, fee-free banking options are a priority for many bettors. We assess each sportsbook’s deposit and withdrawal methods, focusing on the variety of payment methods, transaction fees, and processing speed. Reliable payouts are key for player trust.
• Bonuses and Promotions - Promotions can significantly boost the betting experience. We analyze welcome bonuses, ongoing promos, loyalty rewards, and the fairness of wagering requirements. The best Ontario sportsbooks balance generous promotions with reasonable terms that benefit players.
• Security and Licensing - Security is arguably one of the most critical factors when evaluating Ontario betting sites. Only fully licensed sportsbooks that adhere to local regulations and data protection standards make our list. This ensures that bettors’ funds and information are protected at all times.
• Customer Support - Quality customer support can make a huge difference, especially when issues arise. We test each sportsbook’s customer service, evaluating availability, response time, and helpfulness across channels like live chat, email, and phone. 

By focusing on these factors, we aim to deliver a ranking that truly reflects the best options for Ontario bettors, ensuring you have all the information you need to know where to place your wagers.

Sports betting in Ontario, Canada has a rich history that dates back several years. Prior to the establishment of iGaming Ontario, sports betting was primarily regulated by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). However, with the rise of online sports betting and the increasing popularity of iGaming, there was a need for a more streamlined and effective approach to regulation.

In 2012, iGaming Ontario was established as a subsidiary of the OLG with the aim of regulating online gaming in the province. The organization was established with the primary goal of ensuring that online gaming was conducted in a responsible and safe manner, while also generating revenue for the province.

In 2019, a new bill was introduced in the Canadian parliament known as Bill C-218, or the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act. The bill aimed to legalize single-game sports betting in Ontario and the rest of Canada, which was previously only allowed in the form of parlay bets. This bill was seen as a major step forward for sports betting in Ontario and Canada as a whole, as it allowed for greater flexibility and choice for sports bettors.

Despite the progress made with the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, there are still some challenges facing Ontario sports betting.  For example, there are restrictions on the types of events that can be wagered on, as well as limitations on advertising and promotions. However, with the continued growth and popularity of sports betting in the province, it is likely that these restrictions will continue to be relaxed and that the industry will continue to evolve.

Ontario sportsbooks have come a long way over the years, and there have been several important legal and regulatory movements that have helped shape the industry. With the establishment of iGaming Ontario, the passage of the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, and the increasing popularity of sports betting, it is clear that this is an industry that is here to stay and will only continue to grow in the years to come.

Single Betting vs Parlays

Single betting, also known as straight-up betting, is a form of sports betting where a bettor places a wager on the outcome of a single event or match. Until recently, single betting was illegal in Ontario, Canada, and the only form of sports betting that was allowed was parlay betting.

Prior to the introduction of Bill C-218, also known as the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, the only form of sports betting that was available to Ontario residents was through the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s (OLG) Proline and Proline+. These betting systems required bettors to place wagers on the outcome of multiple events or matches, known as parlay betting.

In addition to the restrictions on single betting and the limited options provided by Proline and Proline+, many Ontario residents also used offshore bookmakers to place sports bets. These bookmakers often operated outside of the jurisdiction of Canadian law, which made it difficult for authorities to regulate and monitor their activities.

Parlay betting is a form of sports betting where a bettor places a wager on the outcome of multiple events or matches. The bettor must correctly predict the outcome of all the events or matches in order to win the wager. Parlay betting has been legal in Canada for several decades and is still offered by the OLG through its Proline and Proline+ betting systems.

Even though single betting has a long history of being restricted in Ontario, Canada, recent legal developments have paved the way for its legalization. This not only provides more sports betting options to Canadians but also offers greater transparency and regulation for the industry as a whole.

Betting exchanges, which offer an alternative to traditional sportsbooks by allowing bettors to place bets against each other rather than the house, are a relatively new addition to Ontario's sports betting market. In July 2023, Ontario welcomed its first licensed betting exchange, STX, marking a significant step toward diversifying betting options in the province.  

STX's entry has brought the peer-to-peer betting model to Ontario, allowing bettors to offer their own odds on various outcomes, which other users can choose to accept or reject. This format can be appealing to more advanced bettors looking for competitive odds and higher payout potential compared to traditional sportsbook models​. 

Betting exchanges remain legal in Ontario under the same regulations that govern online Ontario sportsbooks, provided they are licensed by iGaming Ontario and adhere to strict regulatory standards. However, at this time, STX is the only betting exchange currently available in the province, so choices are limited for Ontario residents interested in exchange-style betting. Despite this limitation, the introduction of STX may pave the way for other exchanges in the future, broadening the betting landscape for Ontario’s sports fans. 

Ontario's regulatory body, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), oversees the operation of STX under iGaming Ontario, ensuring player protection, fair play, and adherence to provincial laws. The AGCO’s openness to betting exchanges represents Ontario’s evolving approach to offering diverse, innovative betting options in a safe, regulated environment.

In Ontario, sports betting is a highly regulated and exciting activity that can be enjoyed by eligible adults through a variety of channels. Whether through online betting sites with convenient apps, Ontario Lottery and Gaming retailers, or even in-person at one of the many kiosks or casinos located within the province, bettors have ample opportunities to participate in Ontario sports betting.

One of the key developments in the regulation of sports betting in Ontario is Bill C-218. This bill aims to ensure that the province remains a leader in providing safe, responsible, and fair sports betting opportunities for its residents. The purpose of the law is to create a regulatory framework that protects players, promotes responsible gambling practices, and helps maintain the integrity of sports events.

At the moment, the only full-service in-person sportsbook in Ontario can be found at Caesars Windsor casino. But with the growth of online sports betting and the continued expansion of betting options, it’s an exciting time for sports fans and bettors alike. Whether you’re an avid fan or just looking for a little extra excitement, sports betting in Ontario has something to offer everyone.

Who is Eligible For a License?

In Ontario, the AGCO (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario) holds a crucial role in the regulation of event and sports betting in Ontario. Whether through traditional channels such as casinos and lottery products or within Ontario’s internet gaming market, the AGCO ensures that operators meet high standards for player protection and game integrity, as well as responsible gambling practices.

For companies eager to offer sports and event betting, they must first be registered with the AGCO and conducted and managed by either iGaming Ontario or the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). It is worth mentioning as well that online Ontario sportsbooks must pay a $100,000 licensing fee and a tax rate of 20% to legally operate in the province.

Currently, Ontario sports betting is accessible to eligible adults through regulated online gaming sites, OLG Proline+ or OLG Proline. These operators are run by iGO and regulated by the AGCO, which ensures that Ontario betting is conducted fairly and responsibly, making it a thrilling experience for players.

Who Will be Able to Bet?

If you’re a fan of sports and a fan of wagering, Ontario, Canada has got you covered! All sports bettors must be at least 19 years of age to participate in legal Ontario betting through online sportsbooks and Great Canadian Sportsbook locations. However, if you’re 18 and fancy a flutter, you can still place physical bets at an OLG lottery terminal.

As of Feb 1, 2023, single-game betting is available at more than 10,000 Ontario retailers. With the best Ontario sports betting apps, you can place your bets on the go with just a few taps from anywhere within the province. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) regulates all online sports betting in Ontario to ensure a fair and safe experience for all bettors. 

If you’re not in Ontario, don’t worry! You can still register for a sportsbook account and add funds from anywhere, but remember, you must be within Ontario’s borders to place a legal wager. The AGCO requires bettors to turn on location services and confirm their exact location before each wager.

There are five retail sportsbooks in Ontario and six other casinos that feature sports betting kiosks. Kambi supplies its sports betting solutions to ten Great Canadian Entertainment casinos and has finalized deals to offer retail sports betting at Fallsview Casino Resort and Casino Niagara. And the best part? Your gambling profits are not taxed in Canada, so you can enjoy 100% of your winnings.

Get ready to place your bets, Ontarians! With the advent of online sports betting in Ontario, you can now experience the thrill of wagering on your favourite sports from the comfort of your own home. Whether you prefer using a mobile device, tablet, or computer, there’s a sportsbook out there to meet your needs.

To get in on the action of Ontario sports betting, all you need to do is:

1. Find Your Ideal Sportsbook - With a plethora of options at your fingertips, it’s important to do your research before choosing your go-to sportsbook. Check out betting lines, read reviews, and ensure your preferred banking methods are supported. Aside from some of the options listed above, you can also bet through a provincially regulated platform like Proline or Proline+.
2. Sign Up in Minutes - Creating an account with Ontario sports betting sites is a hassle-free process. Simply enter some basic information and verify your identity, and you’re ready to start wagering! Note that while anyone in Canada can register, you must be physically present in Ontario to place bets.
3. Fund Your Account - Depositing funds into your sportsbook account is quick and easy. Most Ontario sports betting sites accept a variety of payment methods, including debit cards, credit cards, Interac, PayPal, and eChecks. Unfortunately, cryptocurrency is not yet accepted as a form of payment in Ontario. Most deposits are fee-free but make sure to check for any relevant terms and conditions. 
   
   
4. Pick Your Bet Type - Ontario sports bettors have access to a wide range of bet types, including popular options like moneyline bets, Over/Unders, live bets, point spreads, futures, and props. With big names like FanDuel, DraftKings, and PointsBet now operating in the province, the options are only getting better.
   
   
5. Get in on the Action - Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the betting options and sportsbooks, it’s time to start wagering! Make sure to do your research and only bet on what you’re comfortable with.
6. Cash Out Your Winnings - Withdrawing your winnings is a breeze. Most Ontario sports betting sites allow you to access your funds within a day or two, although some may charge a small fee. Regardless of where you are, registered iGaming operators must allow you to access your winnings.

Reading the Odds

American odds are the most common way of displaying odds in North America, and the default option for online sportsbooks. A minus sign (-) represents a favourite, while a plus sign (+) represents an underdog. For example, -150 odds indicate that you would need to bet $150 to win $100, while +150 odds tell you that a $100 bet would net you $150 in profits. If you’re unfamiliar with or uncomfortable using American odds, you can generally switch to fractional or decimal odds as well.

Ontario's regulated iGaming and sports betting market has shown steady expansion in 2024. For instance, in Q1, the province recorded a handle of approximately CAD $18.4 billion, a remarkable 31% increase over the previous year. During this period, gaming revenue also surged, reaching around CAD $726 million.

Casino games, which include online slots and table games, contributed the majority of this handle and revenue, making up 84% of total wagers and around 73% of revenue. Sports betting, another significant contributor, saw wagering close to CAD $2.5 billion, generating CAD $181 million in revenue​.  

Ontario's market momentum continued into Q2 2024, where the handle increased by 3.4% over the previous quarter up to $18.7 billion in total wagers, supporting robust revenue that has bolstered local economy sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

This vibrant growth is expected to continue, supported by Ontario's robust gaming market regulation, job creation, and effective support for responsible gaming initiatives. The steady rise in both handle and revenue demonstrates the province’s commitment to a regulated and sustainable iGaming environment.

Ontario’s rapid growth and evolving sports betting landscape has been truly remarkable. Here’s a rundown of some of the biggest developments in Ontario sports betting since legalization:

• June 2021: Bill C-218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, is passed by the Canadian Senate, legalizing single-event sports betting. 

• August 27, 2021: Bill C-218 comes into effect, allowing provinces to offer single-event sports betting. 

• April 4, 2022: Ontario launches its regulated online sports betting market, becoming the first province in Canada to do so. 

• April 2022: Multiple licensed sportsbooks, including BetVictor, Sports Interaction, PowerPlay, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Bet365, enter the Ontario market. 

• May 2022: The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) establishes iGaming Ontario (iGO) to regulate the online gaming market. 

• June 2022: Ontario's online sports betting market sees significant growth, with over 30 licensed operators offering a variety of betting options. 

• August 2022: Reports show that Ontario sports bettors placed over $4 billion in total wagers from April 4 to June 30, with iGaming generating $162 million in revenue.  

• January 2023: Ontario reports record-breaking sports betting handle, surpassing $11.53 billion for Q3 of 2022-23 fiscal year, double the previous quarter. 

• April 2023: iGaming Ontario celebrates its one-year anniversary, taking in $13.9 billion in wagers from January 1st to March 31st.   

• July 2023: Ontario’s first betting exchange STX goes live in the province.  

• October 2023: Ontario's sports betting market continues to grow, with a reported $14.2 billion in total iGaming handle for Q2 of the 2022-23 fiscal year.  

• January 2024: Ontario iGaming records $17.2 billion in wagers in fiscal Q3, a 21% increase from the previous quarter.  

• February 2024: AGCO bans athletes from advertising online sports betting and iGaming in Ontario.  

• July 2024: Over $18.4 billion in online wagers reported in Ontario in Q1 of the 2024-25 fiscal year, showcasing a 31% year-over-year increase for the province.  

• November 2024: Caesars Entertainment’s horseshoe online casino launches in Ontario following successful launches in Michigan, West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

Ontario sports betting is a thrilling pastime that has taken the province by storm. From the hard-hitting action of ice hockey to the grace and precision of basketball, bettors have a range of sports to choose from. But, what are the most popular sports to bet on in the province? Let’s take a look.

🏒 Hockey - Hockey, undoubtedly, takes the top spot. With the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Ottawa Senators both calling Ontario home, it’s no surprise that the province is a hockey hotbed. Additionally, hockey is fast-paced, (fairly) high-scoring, and always exciting right up to the final minute of play. So, it’s easy to see why bettors flock to it, as it provides endless opportunities to place winning bets.

🏀 Basketball - Basketball is another fan favourite, especially with the Toronto Raptors’ recent success in the NBA. With its high-flying dunks, clutch three-pointers, and nail-biting finishes, basketball is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. The quick pace and fast-moving action make it an ideal sport for sports bettors looking to get in on the action.

🏈 American Football - American football is another sport that has captured the attention of Ontario bettors. From NCAA college football to the CFL and NFL, football offers a wide range of betting options, from spreads to over/unders to props and futures. With its hard-hitting action, fast-paced gameplay, and endless scoring opportunities, football is a sport that’s guaranteed to keep you entertained.

⚾ Baseball - Baseball is a staple in the sports betting world, and Ontario is no exception. From the excitement of opening day to the drama of the World Series, baseball is a sport that is rich in tradition and provides bettors with a range of betting options, including futures, over/unders, and run lines.

Ontario sports bettors have a deep attachment to several home teams across various leagues, and these teams often top the charts for most-wagered-on sports franchises in the province. Let's dive into why these teams hold such a special place in the hearts and betting slips of Ontarians.

Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL) - The Toronto Maple Leafs are Ontario's hockey pride and a cornerstone of Canadian sports. With a passionate fan base, betting on the Leafs has become a ritual for hockey lovers throughout the province. Despite a decades-long Stanley Cup drought, they consistently draw large numbers on Ontario sportsbooks, with stars like John Tavares and Auston Matthews leading the charge. 

Toronto Raptors (NBA) - Since their NBA Championship win in 2019, the Raptors have gained a massive following. As Canada’s only NBA team, they captivate basketball fans from coast to coast. With an exciting lineup that features young talent like Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley, Raptors games are widely popular betting choices, especially in high-stakes matchups. 

Toronto Blue Jays (MLB) - The Blue Jays represent all of Canada in Major League Baseball, which makes them a national icon. Their young, talented roster and past World Series victories make every season highly anticipated. For baseball bettors, Blue Jays games offer diverse betting markets, from moneylines to prop bets on players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr and Bo Bichette. 

Toronto FC (MLS) - As one of Canada’s leading soccer clubs and the first Canadian franchise in Major League Soccer, Toronto FC enjoys strong support, particularly from soccer fans across Ontario. With regular playoff appearances and a loyal fan base, TFC is a favourite at Ontario betting sites, especially during the intense MLS season. 

Ottawa Senators (NHL) - The Senators may not have the history of the Leafs, but they’re making their own mark at Ontario sports betting sites. With a promising lineup of young talent, Ottawa is gaining attention among hockey bettors looking for the thrill of wagering on an up-and-coming team. Bettors often see value in Senators games, given their growing competitive edge. 

Toronto Argonauts (CFL) - As one of the oldest professional football teams in North America, the Argonauts carry significant history in the Canadian Football League. With multiple Grey Cup titles, they have a dedicated following in Ontario. CFL betting is robust in Ontario, and the Argonauts often bring strong wagering interest, especially during the Grey Cup playoffs. 

The people of Ontario, Canada have a passion for sports that runs deep in their veins, and with the arrival of legal sports betting, this passion has only been fueled further.

The market for sports betting in Ontario is bustling, with a variety of popular betting options for sports fans to sink their teeth into. Here are the most popular sports betting markets in Ontario, each offering its own unique thrills and excitement:

• Moneyline bets - This is the bread and butter of Ontario sports betting. A moneyline bet is a simple wager on which team or player will win a game. It’s an easy way to get started in sports betting and a great way to back your favourite team.
• Point spread bets - Point spread bets are a bit more complex than moneyline bets but can be just as exciting. With point spread betting, you’re wagering on the margin of victory for a particular game. For example, you might bet on one team to win by more than seven points, or another team to win by less than seven points.
• Over/Under bets - Over/Under bets are another popular bet type in Ontario. With this bet, you’re wagering on the total number of points that will be scored in a game. For instance, you might bet on the over if you think a high-scoring game is in the cards, or the under if you think the game will be a low-scoring affair.
• Prop bets - Prop bets are a fun and creative way to bet on sports. These bets focus on specific events within a game, such as how many points a certain player will score, or whether a certain play will happen. Prop bets add an extra layer of excitement to sports betting, and are a great way to get in on the action.

Regulated Ontario betting sites ensure that you have access to a wide range of betting options, so there's always something new and exciting to bet on in Ontario. 

• Horse Racing - Dive into the world of horse racing with various bet types, including win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, and superfecta bets. 

• Casino Games - Enjoy a variety of online casino games, from slots and blackjack to roulette and poker, all available at licensed Ontario sports betting sites. 

• Esports - Bet on your favourite eSports teams and players competing in popular games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and CS:GO. 

• Virtual Sports - Engage in virtual sports betting, where you can place wagers on simulated sports events that mimic real-life competitions. 

• Reality TV and Entertainment - SomeO Ontario betting sites offer unique betting markets on reality TV shows, award shows, and other entertainment events. 

• Political and Financial Markets - For those who enjoy a different kind of thrill, you can also bet on political outcomes and financial market movements. 

In the world of Ontario sports betting, the difference between a licensed site and an unlicensed one can be the difference between a thrilling win and a devastating loss. When you choose to place your bets with licensed Ontario sports betting sites, you’re not only ensuring that you’re in compliance with Canadian law, but you’re also betting with a company that has been thoroughly vetted by the government.

Here’s a closer look at the differences between a licensed and unlicensed Ontario sports betting site:

Licensed Sports Betting Site: Licensed Ontario sports betting sites operate under the jurisdiction of the province and must adhere to strict rules and regulations. These sites are regularly audited by the government to ensure that they’re fair, secure, and transparent. Additionally, licensed sites must offer responsible gambling options and provide customer support that is regularly available, typically 24/7. This gives bettors peace of mind knowing that their funds are safe, their personal information is protected, and their betting experience is fair and enjoyable.

Unlicensed Sports Betting Site: On the other hand, unlicensed betting sites operate outside of the law, which means they don’t have to follow any rules or regulations. These ties are often run by rogue and often deceptive operators who have no qualms about cheating bettors out of their hard-earned cash. They’re also more susceptible to security breaches, which can leave your personal information and funds at risk. Additionally, unlicensed sites often offer limited options for betting, poor customer support, and subpar odds, which can make for a disappointing betting experience.

Why Should I Use a Licensed Site?

When it comes to sports betting in Ontario, the choice between a licensed and an unlicensed site can have a major impact on your experience. Here are a few reasons why you should always choose a licensed site in Ontario:

1. Trustworthiness: A licensed sports betting site operates under the watchful eye of the government, meaning you can trust that your personal and financial information will be handled securely. An unlicensed site, on the other hand, operates in the shadows, with no oversight to ensure your data is protected.
2. Fairness: A licensed sports betting site must adhere to strict regulations, which ensure a fair and transparent betting experience. You can rest assured that the odds are calculated fairly and that the outcome of each wager will be determined by the actual performance of the teams, not by any outside influence. An unlicensed site has no such guarantees.
3. Legality: Only licensed Ontario sports betting sites are allowed to operate legally in the province. Using an unlicensed site puts you at risk of engaging in illegal activity.
4. Peace of Mind: With a licensed site, you can enjoy your sports betting experience with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your rights are protected. An unlicensed site offers no such protection and therefore, you run the risk of losing your money or personal information.

In short, when you bet on sports with licensed Ontario sports betting sites, you’re betting with a company that is fully committed to ensuring a fair and secure betting experience.

On the other hand, betting with an unlicensed site is like playing with fire, you never know what you’re going to get. So, when it comes to sports betting in Ontario, always choose a licensed site to ensure that your experience is a rewarding one.

These retail sportsbooks provide Ontarians and visitors with in-person options to enjoy a comprehensive betting experience, ranging from traditional sportsbooks with live action screens to kiosk-powered locations for more straightforward betting.

Ontario has a strong commitment to responsible gambling, with numerous programs and organizations dedicated to supporting players and promoting safe gambling habits. Here are some key programs and resources available in the province:

• PlaySmart by OLG - Offers comprehensive resources on smart gambling habits, including budgeting, understanding odds, and tools like My PlayBreak for self-exclusion. PlaySmart Centres are also located at all casinos and charitable gaming centers in Ontario.

• ConnexOntario - A free, confidential service that provides 24/7 support, referrals, and information on mental health and addiction services, including problem gambling.

• Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) - A non-profit organization focused on research, education and the development of programs to reduce gambling risks. RGC also operates RG Check, an accreditation for gambling venues.

• GamTalk - An online community that provides support and advice through peer forums and moderated discussions for people affected by problem gambling.

• Gambling Therapy - An international organization offering multilingual online support, including text-based therapy, forums and self-help resources for those affected by gambling.

• Credit Counseling Canada - Offers resources and counselling services to help individuals manage financial challenges and recover from gambling-related debt.