Press Releases
Record 45.2 million Americans to Wager on 2021 NFL Season

A record 45.2 million Americans (18%) plan to wager on the 2021 National Football League (NFL) season, according to research released today by the American Gaming Association (AGA). Compared to last year, 36 percent more Americans will place a bet on the league’s games this season.
The sharp rise in betting plans this year can be traced to the expansion of legal sports betting options and increased enthusiasm overall for the upcoming season. Fans in 18 states and Washington, DC had access to operational, legal sports betting at the start of the 2020 season. As the 2021 season kicks off, Americans will be able to place legal sports wagers in 26 states and Washington, DC, with five additional states likely to offer legal sports betting by the end of the season.*
“Sports betting is more popular than ever among Americans, and the enthusiasm of bettors for the upcoming NFL season highlights the remarkable growth of the industry over the past three years,” said AGA President and CEO Bill Miller. “Importantly, when the 2021 NFL season begins, more than 111 million* American adults will be able to wager safely with regulated sportsbooks in their home states rather than with the predatory illegal market.”
While NFL betting is projected to be up across all wagering methods, betting with online sportsbooks is expected to see the largest increase over 2020 while illegal bookies are expected to see the slowest growth:
- 21.7 million American adults will bet on the 2021 NFL season casually with friends, up 31 percent from 2020.
- 19.5 million will place a bet online (legal and illegal), up 73 percent from 2020.
- 14.6 million will participate in a paid fantasy contest or other type of pool competition, up 69 percent from 2021.
- 10.5 million will place a bet at a physical casino sportsbook, up 58 percent from 2020.
- 6.7 million will place a bet with a bookie, up 13 percent from 2020.
AGA research also shows sports betting’s significant value to the league, with 37 percent of NFL fans planning to wager on this year’s NFL season, including nearly half (47%) of self-described avid NFL fans. Moreover, 44 percent of all Americans and 63 percent of NFL fans believe that in-venue sportsbooks will add entertainment value to attending sporting events in-person.
Along with the expansion of the legal market, increased fan enthusiasm will also drive NFL betting this year, as 25 percent of Americans say they are more excited about the upcoming season than previous seasons, up from 18 percent last year.
Fans from the Northeast (21%) are most interested in betting on the NFL this year, followed by the West (18%), Midwest (17%), and South (15%).
“Fans are the heartbeat of professional sports, and leagues like the NFL are realizing the full potential of sports betting to drive fan engagement,” added Miller. “To capitalize on this tremendous opportunity, the NFL and its 32 teams must also realize their responsibility to educate fans and promote responsible gaming.”
Among expected bettors, the Chiefs are the most popular pick to win the Super Bowl (15%), followed by the Buccaneers (11%), and Cowboys (7%).
*Includes anticipated launch of Arizona, South Dakota, and Washington by NFL kick-off on Sept. 9.
Background
- The NFL and its teams have formed 52 data sharing and marketing partnerships since May 2018.
- Sports betting is currently legal in 32 states and Washington, DC. 16 of the 23 states that are home to NFL teams have legalized sports betting.
- Americans have legally wagered nearly $27 billion on sports in the first seven months of 2021, generating more than $350 million in federal, state, and local taxes.
- AGA’s interactive sports betting map tracks sports betting legalization, including active legislation, on a state-by-state basis.
- AGA’s Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly.™ public service campaign brings together sports leagues and teams, media, and gaming companies to promote sports betting education. The Washington Football Team is the first NFL team partner with the campaign.
Compliance Updates
ThrillTech secures regulatory approvals to launch jackpots in Latam

Peru and Brazil to provide launchpad for Latam expansion as ThrillTech strengthens presence in emerging regulated markets
ThrillTech, the B2B jackpot specialist, has taken a significant step forward in its international growth strategy after securing a B2B licence in Peru and regulatory certification in Brazil.
The approvals clear the path for ThrillTech to launch its proprietary player-funded jackpot solutions in Latin America for the first time, bringing its flagship ThrillPots product to one of the world’s most exciting and emerging regions for iGaming.
Latin America has become a focal point for operators in recent years, with Brazil’s market liberalisation and Peru’s structured regulatory framework, as set out by the country’s ministry of foreign trade and tourism (MINCETUR), providing fertile ground for innovative engagement tools.
By working tirelessly to secure entry into both countries, ThrillTech is positioning itself to support operators with compliant, performance-driven jackpot mechanics that can drive revenue and enhance retention.
Peter Mares, CTO and co-founder of ThrillTech, said: “Expanding into Latin America is a milestone moment for us. The region is bursting with opportunity, but it also demands solutions that are flexible, transparent, and built to scale. With a licence in Peru and certification in Brazil, we are ready to deliver the same measurable revenue impact to operators in Latam that we’ve already proven in Europe.
ThrillTech’s products are designed to provide operators with new revenue streams through side-bet jackpots, while also offering real-time engagement mechanics via cash-only rewards.
Already integrated with multiple tier-one operators in Europe, ThrillTech is now primed to replicate that success in Latam by delivering regulator-approved solutions to local operators.
Latest News
Inspired Extends Brazil Presence with EstrelaBet Partnership

Inspired Entertainment, Inc., a leading provider of B2B gaming content, systems, and solutions, has expanded its presence in Brazil through a newly launched partnership with EstrelaBet, a leading Brazilian gaming tech company. The collaboration brings Inspired’s acclaimed portfolio of iGaming titles to EstrelaBet’s growing player base, further demonstrating the Company’s commitment to the region’s gaming industry.
Through integration facilitated by Softswiss, EstrelaBet players in Brazil will now have access to a wide selection of Inspired’s top-performing online and mobile slot titles, including localized versions of global hits such as Big Fishing Fortune™ (Super Pescaria da Fortuna), Golden Winner™ (Campeão de Ouro), Cops ‘n’ Robbers Bigger Big Money™ (Polícia e Ladrão Bolada), Centurion Big Money™ (Centurion Muita Grana), among others. The rollout will also include regular new content releases, offering a balance of fan-favourite classics, innovative mechanics, and seasonal experiences designed to maximize player engagement and retention.
Claire Osborne, Vice President of Interactive at Inspired Entertainment, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with EstrelaBet to bring our diverse portfolio of fun games to Brazilian players. From proven hits to innovative seasonal content, our titles are designed to entertain, captivate, and perform. This partnership marks another important step in expanding Inspired’s reach in one of the world’s most exciting and fast-growing iGaming markets.”
Fellipe Fraga, Chief Business Officer at EstrelaBet, added: “This collaboration positions EstrelaBet at the forefront of the Brazilian iGaming sector by offering our players access to some of the most recognized and entertaining slots content available. Inspired’s reputation for quality and variety makes them an ideal partner, and we look forward to delivering their games to our growing audiences across Brazil.”
With localized branding, strong thematic appeal, and a track record of high performance across regulated markets, Inspired’s iGaming content is well positioned to captivate Brazil’s rapidly expanding online player base while delivering added value to operators.
Latest News
NOVOMATIC sets high expectations at GAT Bogotá with launches that redefine multi-games

On September 25, NOVOMATIC will once again take center stage at GAT Expo, with the largest booth at the event at the Hotel Sheraton Bogotá, and a line-up of products that anticipate new trends in the gaming industry.
In addition to showcasing its most advanced technology, the company will offer an exclusive hospitality space, where visitors can enjoy appetizers and drinks in an ideal setting while they discover the latest additions to its portfolio!
A new multi-game platform that will make waves
Among the most anticipated launches, NOVOMATIC will unveil a brand-new multi-game platform that is destined to become a true game changer within its product line. Featuring a selection of must-play titles and offering operators a differentiated approach, this solution is set to generate tremendous excitement in the market.
In the words of Manuel Del Sol, CEO of NOVOMATIC Gaming Colombia: “We are proud to bring a platform to Bogotá that redefines what operators can expect from a multi-game. This is a proposal that not only enhances the player experience, but also represents another step forward in our vision of delivering comprehensive, high-performance solutions across all market segments.”
The company keep is keeping the details under wraps, inviting operators to discover the platform exclusively at GAT Bogotá.
A portfolio that consolidates leadership
- Multi-game Platforms: Magic Games Premium HD Edition 5, available on PANTHER 3.27 and FUNMASTER 2.27 cabinets, and Impera Line™ HD Edition 9, showcased on the PANTHER 3.27, delivering greater versatility and top-performing titles.
- Linked Progressive Jackpots: Superia CASH CONNECTION™ Vol. 1 & 2, IMPERA LINK™ Series 2, and NOVO LINE™ GOLDEN LINK™ Edition 2, all displayed on the flagship BLACK EDITION II 3.27 and MASTER SL™ 3.32 cabinets.
Return of Ruby Package with Globe Link™ Xtension
After its successful debut in Cartagena, the Ruby Package returns, now joined by the GLOBE LINK™ Xtension Vol. 1 & 2. This solution combines cutting-edge hardware and engaging content, enhancing visual appeal and player engagement. The highlights of the package include the BLACK EDITION II 1.49J, which features an upgraded design, luminous infills, and a premium style that maximizes impact on the gaming floor.
Features that captivate players
The GLOBE LINK™ Xtension includes features that are highly appreciated by modern players:
- Golden Spins: with high-impact spins and boosted prize potential
- Free Games: extended playtime and engagement
- Xpress Feature: instant access to Golden Spins for direct action
- Expanding Reels: increased chances of winning in every game
Cabinets designed for every market
At GAT Bogotá, NOVOMATIC will also showcase its renowned BLACK EDITION II line of cabinets, which has been praised by operators worldwide for its premium design, substantial visual impact, and ease of maintenance.
The BLACK EDITION II 1.49J stands out with its J-curved screen, which is designed to maximize immersion and extend player time on the device. The Black Metro finish and ambient LED lighting give the cabinet a commanding presence on the gaming floor, making it a solid benchmark in the portfolio.
Other models from the same line follow this philosophy, combining the ergonomics, visibility, and powerful aesthetics that have made BLACK EDITION II a synonym of innovation and performance.
In parallel, the FUNMASTER 2.27 and PANTHER 3.27 cabinets continue to be in high demand in the Colombian market, thanks to their outstanding price-to-performance ratio and proven reliability. In such a diverse market, their versatility underscores NOVOMATIC’s flexibility in adapting to different operational realities, ranging from premium venues to investment-sensitive operations.
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