Florida’s stance on sports betting has evolved rapidly over the past few years. Once entirely prohibited, it is now legal, but under very specific conditions. As of 2025, Floridians can legally bet on sports both online and in person—but only through one operator: Hard Rock Bet. This exclusivity stems from a 30-year gaming compact between the State of Florida and the Seminole Tribe, which allows the Tribe to run both retail and online sports betting.
Although the legality of this compact faced multiple court challenges, it was upheld in federal court in 2023, and the U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene. While the debate over market access and fairness continues, the current reality is clear: sports betting in Florida is legal, but tightly controlled. This article offers a detailed, user-friendly breakdown of how sports betting works in Florida, what platforms are legal, where you can bet, and what to expect going forward.
Legal History of Sports Betting in Florida
The Seminole Compact and Initial Launch
In May 2021, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a 30-year gaming agreement with the Seminole Tribe. This deal gave the Tribe exclusive rights to offer sports betting, both in-person at tribal casinos and online throughout the state.
In November 2021, the Seminoles briefly launched the Hard Rock Bet app. However, lawsuits quickly followed, arguing that the agreement violated federal law by allowing bets placed off tribal lands.
Legal Pushback and Shutdown
Later in 2021, a federal judge ruled against the compact, halting all operations. The Hard Rock Bet app went offline, and the future of sports betting in Florida was uncertain.
Legal Reinstatement and Supreme Court Decision
In June 2023, a federal appeals court reversed the previous ruling, declaring that the Department of the Interior had the authority to approve the compact. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to review the case, effectively restoring legal online sports betting in Florida under the Seminole Tribe’s oversight.
Current Legal Status (2025 Update)
What’s Legal Now?
- Online Sports Betting: Legal only through Hard Rock Bet, the Seminole Tribe’s sportsbook.
- Retail Betting: Available at six Seminole-owned casinos across Florida.
- Age Requirement: Bettors must be at least 21 years old.
- In-State Only: All bets must be placed from within Florida’s borders. Geolocation technology is used to verify location.
Who Regulates Sports Betting?
Florida’s sports betting is regulated by the Florida Gaming Control Commission, ensuring that the Tribe operates within the agreed framework and that betting is secure and responsible.
Where Can You Bet?
Online Betting
- Platform: Hard Rock Bet
- Requirements: Must be physically located in Florida and age 21+
- Access: App available on iOS, Android, and web browsers
Retail Betting Locations
You can place bets in person at these tribal casinos:
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
- Seminole Classic Casino (Hollywood)
- Seminole Casino Coconut Creek
- Seminole Casino Immokalee
- Seminole Brighton Casino
What Can You Bet On?
Hard Rock Bet offers a wide variety of betting options, including:
Sports
- NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL
- NCAA Football and Basketball
- Soccer (domestic and international leagues)
- Golf, Tennis, MMA, Boxing, Motorsports
Bet Types
- Moneylines
- Point spreads
- Totals (over/under)
- Player and game props
- Parlays and same-game parlays
- Teasers and futures
Responsible Gambling Features
Hard Rock Bet provides tools to support safe and responsible play:
- Deposit and wager limits
- Time limits
- Self-exclusion options
- Immediate access to helpline resources
Support services are available through national and state organizations offering 24/7 assistance for problem gambling.
Future Outlook
Will Other Operators Enter Florida?
As of now, only the Seminole Tribe can legally operate sports betting in Florida. Companies like DraftKings and FanDuel are not permitted to offer sports betting, though they may still provide fantasy sports.
There is hope among some industry groups and consumers that the state might open the market to competition. However, such changes would require legislative action or a constitutional amendment approved by voters.
What Could Change?
- Court Cases: Ongoing legal disputes could reshape the market.
- Ballot Measures: Voter initiatives could push for open-market sports betting.
- Legislation: State lawmakers might revisit the exclusivity arrangement in future sessions.
FAQs
1. Is sports betting legal in Florida in 2025?
Yes. Sports betting is legal through the Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock Bet platform for online and retail wagering.
2. Can I use FanDuel or DraftKings to bet in Florida?
No. These platforms are not licensed for sports betting in Florida. Only fantasy sports games are allowed on those apps.
3. What’s the legal age for sports betting in Florida?
You must be at least 21 years old to place a legal sports bet in Florida.
4. Where can I bet on sports in Florida?
You can place bets online using the Hard Rock Bet app or in person at six Seminole casinos across the state.
5. Will more sportsbooks become legal in Florida?
Possibly, but not without a change in the law or a new voter-approved constitutional amendment.
Today’s Sports on TV: Full Daily Schedule for Fans
Conclusion
Florida’s journey toward legalized sports betting has been complex, marked by legal battles and political negotiations. As of 2025, sports betting is fully legal—but only through one provider: Hard Rock Bet, operated by the Seminole Tribe under a compact with the state. This exclusivity offers simplicity and regulatory control but limits consumer choice and competition.
While legal hurdles have mostly been cleared for the current model, questions remain about the future of sports betting in Florida. Will the market open to other operators? Will voters demand more options? Only time will tell. For now, Florida residents and visitors have a secure, legal way to bet on sports—online or at a casino—as long as they meet the requirements. The industry is expected to grow in size and sophistication, and staying informed will be key for anyone looking to participate responsibly.