PARIS, France — The Paris Olympics are here, with games already underway in some sports and the Opening Ceremony on the Seine set for Friday, and some fans are ready to put their money where their mouth is.
Sports betting has seen an explosion in popularity in recent years, and with 38 states now having legal betting in some form, the Olympics are expected to attract some serious bettors.
Can you bet on the Olympics?
Yes, bettors will be able to wager their money on bets ranging from individual Olympics events to a country's total medal count.
In the 30 states that allow mobile betting, bettors will see Olympics odds available in the apps they're able to use in their state, including major players like DraftKings and FanDuel, and others that operate on a smaller level. The available odds may be categorized by sport or under a dedicated Olympics tab.
In states without mobile betting, retail sportsbooks can place Olympics bets.
Are there any restrictions to betting on the Olympics?
Some states have their own individual restrictions. Massachusetts, for example, has banned betting on events that are decided by judges, like gymnastics. In most states, the age requirement to place bets is 21.
Sports betting of any kind is not legal in Alabama, Alaska, California, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Minnesota, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas or Utah.
How to watch the Olympics
You can watch coverage of the Olympics on NBC and Peacock, and stream events on NBC Olympics. Cable, satellite or streaming authentication will be required to watch the NBC Olympics or Peacock live streams.
NBC and Peacock will have live coverage of the Opening Ceremony beginning at noon Eastern on Friday, July 26.
