Ontario Sports Betting Sites for December 2024
Best Ontario online sportsbooks
Features
- Massive selection of markets.
- Easy-to-use interface.
- Wide variety of deposit/withdrawal options.
Betway Review
While this book won’t wow you with its design, you won’t find many apps easier to navigate – or with the sheer volume of sports markets Betway offers. Combine that with one of the best esports betting experiences in the province, and you have a global sports betting brand that deserves to be mentioned among the top options in Ontario.
Features
Features
- Expansive sports menu.
- Plentiful in-game betting options.
- NFL live streaming
BetVictor Review
BetVictor deserves significant credit for remaining relevant three-quarters of a century after first launching its bookmaking product. But its no-frills approach to the Ontario sports betting market is going to be a difficult sell compared with operators who do much more for their customers.
Features
Features
- Canada’s most popular online sportsbook.
- Large variety of betting options.
- Quality live betting options.
bet365 Review
bet365 Sportsbook and Casino launched in Ontario, Canada, on April 4, 2022, as one of the first iGaming operators licensed and regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, iGaming Ontario, and the Responsible Gambling Council.
Features
Features
- High quality odds.
- Higher limits than average sportsbooks.
- Massive volume of sports.
Pinnacle Review
It always pays to have an account with Pinnacle to benefit from its generous odds and early opening lines.
Features
Features
- One of the most popular online sportsbooks.
- Substantial banking options.
- Wide range of sportsbook bet types.
BetMGM Review
The sports betting platform at BetMGM is easily one of the most popular in the online sports betting market. They offer every sport you could imagine to bet on, a quality live betting platform and live streaming on select events. Unfortunately, if you’re an experienced bettor, you will be limited pretty quickly if you go on a roll.
Features
Features
- Strong in-play betting component.
- Easy deposit options
- Good selection of sports
TonyBet Review
When it comes to the sports betting experience, there’s plenty sorely lacking here. From the vig-heavy odds to the strangely complicated interface to the list of sports with a more European audience in mind, it stands to wonder whether TonyBet truly cares about its Canadian audience.
Features
Features
- Most withdrawals within the hour
- Wide variety of sports & events
- Automatic early lead payouts
Betano Review
Launched on October 19, 2022, Betano offers a wide variety of bet types for both major and obscure sports plus decent odds for most markets.
Features
Bet99 Review
From the sheer number of sports offered (including a veritable buffet of eSports markets) to the ease with which bettors can place their wagers on the new mobile app, BET99 clearly cares about giving its customers a memorable experience.
Features
Features
- Strong offering of sports markets.
- New look and mobile app now in Ontario
- Easy deposits and withdrawals.
Sports Interaction Review
SIA could be positioned to make a dent in the massive Ontario sports betting market. But while the product stands up well, the lack of a mobile app and a mediocre props market, among other things, will make it difficult for Sports Interaction to keep up with the lead pack.
Features
Features
- Wide selection of live betting markets.
- Good number of deposit options
- Strong customer service.
LeoVegas Review
While LeoVegas has earned some praise for its mobile apps and was born as a mobile product, the overall sportsbook experience is average. If you like odds shopping and having multiple sportsbook accounts, then LeoVegas is worth adding to your list of options.
Features
Features
- Strong live event coverage.
- Withdrawals processed quickly.
- Instant deposits
PowerPlay Review
PowerPlay does have a fine selection of sports and live bet markets, and now you can download the app on iOS or Android.
Features
Features
- Global brand recognition.
- In-play betting and live streaming.
- Quality bet type options.
888sport Review
888sport offers a wealth of global experience being offered in over 100 countries. They’ve been operating since 2008 and are licensed with many different regulators across the world, including the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. These regulations make 888sport a safe place to bet as a legal sports betting operator.
Features
Features
- New Bet Tracker feature for great NBA experience.
- 150+ live markets and competitive odds.
- Early cash-outs and seamless deposit options.
PointsBet Review
PointsBet easily offers one of the best and most unique products in a copy-cat market. As long as you can stay off their radar as a sharp bettor, you will be hard-pressed to find a better product.
Features
Features
- One of the world's largest sportsbook operators.
- Longstanding relationship with Caesars Windsor.
- Large offering of odds boosts.
Caesars Review
Caesars Sportsbook offers bettors one of the industry’s most expansive mobile betting menus. They offer live betting and live streaming throughout the day, featuring events worldwide.
Features
Features
- Strong casino options.
- Quality live betting selection.
- Large offering of alternative lines and props.
BetRivers Review
Overall, BetRivers gives you an average sportsbook experience. Yet it is still better than most of the grey market options you’ll find, and you have the safety of betting with a locally-regulated sportsbook.
Features
Features
- Focus on Ontario sports teams.
- Unparalleled familiarity with Ontario market.
- Fresh and exciting wagering interface.
NorthStar Bets Review
NorthStar Bets is now live in the growing Ontario market, promising a “uniquely local, premier user experience.” While not quite in the upper echelon of sports betting providers in the Ontario market, NorthStar Bets can still deliver a good product for those looking for a home-grown, Ontario-centric option.
Features
Fitzdares Review
On Feb. 6, 2023, Fitzdares Sportsbook made its international debut by officially launching its online platform in Ontario. Now, new users can take advantage of casino and sportsbook offerings via the same website and app.
Features
Features
- Customizable cashouts.
- Personal bet configurator.
- Quick, user-friendly interface.
NEO.bet Review
From customized cash-out conditions to its proprietary personal bet configurator, NEO.bet players are treated to an experience unlike any other in Ontario.
Features
Features
- Same day cash payouts in store.
- No account required to bet in store.
- 100% of proceeds are reinvested in Ontario.
PROLINE+ Review
PROLINE+ is muddled in Ontario's second or third tier of legal online sportsbooks. They are a step behind the competition operating in the market in most aspects of their product.
Features
Quick links On this page
- Best Ontario online sportsbooks
- Top Ontario sportsbooks
- Legal sportsbooks in Ontario
- How to bet on sports in Ontario
- Ontario sports leagues & teams to bet on
- What you can (and can't) bet on in Ontario
- Ontario sports betting key developments & updates
- Legal sports betting & regulations in Ontario
- Retail sportsbooks in Ontario
- Responsible gambling in Ontario
- Ontario’s first betting exchange STX
- Ontario teams and sportsbook partnerships
- Ontario sportsbook banking options
- Provincial sports betting guides
- iGaming Ontario sports betting handle
- How we rate & review Ontario sportsbooks
- Why trust SBR?
- Ontario sports betting FAQ
List of top Ontario sportsbooks
Listed below are top 10 sportsbooks in Ontario:
Best Betting Site 🏆 | Best Known For ✅ |
---|---|
⭐ Betway | Great banking options |
⭐ BetVictor | Great selection of props |
⭐ bet365 | Popular sportsbook in Canada |
⭐ Pinnacle | Quality Odds |
⭐ BetMGM | Competitive odds |
⭐ TonyBet | Great for live betting |
⭐ Betano | Quick Payment Methods |
⭐ Bet99 | Brand new app |
⭐ Sports Interaction | Wide variety of betting options |
⭐ LeoVegas | Variety of betting options |
Other sportsbooks in Ontario
With competition as fierce as any of the North American regions, Ontario is set up nicely to serve its sports bettors with the best options in the industry.
Ontarians already have roughly 30 sports betting and Ontario sports betting apps options at their disposal – and with a handful of second-wave participants close to securing their licensing from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, that number will only grow. Don't hesitate to use SBR as a way to evaluate the pros and cons of your options. Bally Bet is expected to join the Ontario market sometime in their Q4 according to reports as well.
Without further ado, here are the best of the rest of Ontario sportsbooks:
Best Betting Site 🏆 | Best Known For ✅ |
---|---|
⭐ PowerPlay | New to Ontario |
⭐ 888 Sport | Worldwide popularity |
⭐ PointsBet | Industry Innovator |
⭐ Caesars | Great for live betting |
⭐ BetRivers | Good prop options |
⭐ NorthStar Bets | Focus on Ontario teams |
⭐ Fitzdares | Great betting experience |
⭐ Neo.bet | Good payout speed |
⭐ Proline+ | Ontario favorite |
⭐ DraftKings | Industry-leading betting app |
⭐ FanDuel | Fan favourite |
Legal sportsbooks in Ontario
According to the market overview by iGaming Ontario, there are 30 licensed online sportsbooks in Ontario. This includes some of North America’s biggest operators like Sports Interaction, TonyBet, BetVictor, bet365, Betway, Caesars Sportsbook, and BetMGM. There are some prominent operators from overseas operators in the mix as well (like 888sport), giving Ontarians plenty of choices for both sportsbooks and online casinos.
Ontario sports betting summary
🚀 Launch Date | April 4, 2022 |
💰 # of Betting Sites | 65+ |
📱 Online Sports Betting | ✅ Yes |
🎰 Retail Sports Betting | ✅ Yes (Caesars Windsor) |
🖥️ Online Casino | ✅ Yes |
🃏 Retail Casino | ✅ Yes |
₿ Cryptocurrency | ❌ No |
🏈 U.S. College Sports Betting | ✅ Yes |
🌎 2024 Population (est.) | 15.4 million |
💸 Tax Rate | 20 percent |
➡️ Last verified by expert | Dec. 12, 2024 |
Below, you’ll find SBR’s selection of the best sports betting sites in Canada's biggest market, as well as the best choices for Ontario bettors.
Betway Sportsbook ⭐
Betway is a sportsbook that many Canada sports betting enthusiasts are familiar with. Founded in 2006, Betway’s primary markets are still overseas, however its prominence is also growing at a good pace in North America, including Ontario. As an established global brand, Betway offers a refined product including a user-friendly website and a comprehensive mobile app.
The homepage of the website has an organized layout, with dedicated tabs and quick links available to ease navigation between popular hubs and betting markets. The variety of betting options is also strong, emphasized by a great market selection for most sports and leagues. Betway has focused on improving rarer offering such as eSports as well, showcased by a dedicated ‘eSports’ tab on the homepage of both the website and the app.
Another prominent highlight is the ease of live betting, which includes high-quality live streaming in addition to live stat tracking and several live betting markets. The mobile app takes things a step further, with an ‘in-play’ tab that allows players to place live bets while watching a stream. The bet builder tool is a convenient feature that also provides a helping hand when constructing parlay bets.
Overall, Betway is a worthy choice for those looking for both convenience and market selection, especially when it comes to NFL.
Sports Interaction Sportsbook 🏀
Sports Interaction (SIA) sportsbook has emerged as a prime destination for bettors in Ontario. It offers an impressive array of betting markets like no other sportsbook in the province. There are ample choices, whether you are into the NFL, MLB, or NHL. The moneylines and spreads offer excellent pricing as we are nearing the championship’s latter stages, and the sheer depth of player props in NFL betting sites is one of the platform’s biggest selling points.
We love that Sports Interaction keep it simple in their design — no flashy banners and tedious popups. A simple yet detailed dropdown menu on the left and the most popular markets at the center of the interface make navigation a breeze. The font is larger than most other sportsbooks offer, so you don’t have to squint looking for the sports.
SIA's innovation extends beyond traditional betting. Features like Minute Madness and Pinata Picks add a fresh twist, making the betting experience even more thrilling. Minute Madness allows wagers based on real-world hockey scores, while Pinata Picks offers a blend of known odds with unpredictable outcomes for a more suspenseful betting adventure.
One new feature that stands out for Sports Interaction Ontario is the new app that users can download. The app has a great new interface and is much quicker to work through when scrolling from league to league. This update easily vaults SIA into contention as one of the best sites out there.
Checkout our in depth Sports Interaction review here.
888sport Sportsbook 🎱
888sport sportsbook is an award-winning sports betting and casino platform in Ontario that’s already made an indelible mark on the sports betting industry in the province. Ontario's sports enthusiasts have a prime destination in 888sport, especially when live betting is on the agenda.
The platform prominently features popular sports like hockey, soccer, and football. And for those who want to elevate their betting experience, there's more. Along with this extensive live betting offering, 888sport enhances user engagement through its live video streaming service.
This feature, covering a broad spectrum of events year-round, offers both the excitement of the game and the convenience of live betting. While most streams are free for registered users, a few special events might require a qualifying bet — a detail indicated by the TV logo.
The website boasts an intuitive design, ensuring that even first-time visitors can easily navigate the various sports, make bets, and handle their accounts. Every section smoothly transitions to the next, creating a cohesive user journey from sign-in to placing a wager.
Further enriching this experience is 888sport’s dedicated app, available for both Apple and Android users. With commendable ratings — 4.4 on the Apple App Store and 4.5 on Google Play — the app is a testament to the platform’s commitment to quality and user satisfaction.
The latest 888sport review can be seen here.
bet365 Sportsbook 🟢
bet365 sportsbook is a European giant that’s made significant strides in the North American market, and Ontario is no different. The operator’s UK roots mean soccer bets were always going to drive the traffic on the site, and considering that a high percentage of all bets last year in Ontario were placed on soccer, bet365 was one of the most popular sportsbooks in the province.
In addition to innovative soccer betting features like '10 Minute Events' and 'Time of First Corner', the operator has integrated many different betting features that enhance the experience, including regular options that can increase soccer odds by about 70%. Edit My Bet, Multi Leg Same Game Parlay, and Quick Bet, which lets you place straight bets faster onsite, are some of the most prominent features that separate bet365 from the rest.
More than 25,000 user reviews contributed to a 4.6 rating at the Apple App Store, making this one of the best-rated apps in Ontario.
One major plus with bet365 is the app. The interface is clean and the app is very quick when going from section to section. bet365 offers so many options from league-to-league and with the easy to use app in place, it's a win.
You can find the bet365 review here.
Caesars Sportsbook 🏛
Caesars Sportsbook has upped the ante on live sports betting offers in Ontario and has become the leader in the field. You’ll find coverage of everything from the Spanish Segunda Division to MLB’s hottest games on any given day.
The Quick Picks feature gives you prebuilt parlays with odds ranging from +250 to +1000 and more, so there are odds for chalk bettors and those looking for upsets. All games with the SGP sign are eligible for a Same Game Parlay. There isn’t a dedicated tab for SGPs.
Caesars Sportsbook is unique in requiring all bettors from Ontario to be at least 21 years old, rather than the minimum legal requirement of 19.
See the updated Caesars review here.
Pinnacle Sportsbook ⚾
Pinnacle Sportsbook stepped confidently into the Ontario betting arena on October 26, 2022, having secured endorsements from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario (iGO). The platform distinguishes itself by offering competitive pricing across various markets, including spread, ML, and O/U, particularly shining with its top-tier odds on NHL games and in-demand player props. Their commitment to providing better odds is evident in their reduced juice strategy, with one of the smallest margins on the market across the betting offer, and they're recognized for accommodating higher betting limits than many of their rivals.
Beyond the conventional, Pinnacle has carved a niche in the esports sector. Their dedicated "eSports Hub" provides bettors with compelling odds on various tournaments, from well-known events like CS: GO and League of Legends to niche favorites such as Mobile Legends and Age of Empires.
But what truly sets Pinnacle apart is its embrace of arbitrage betting, reflecting its staunch confidence in its market pricing and astute risk management. Further enhancing the user experience, Pinnacle streamlines the betting process by enabling swift single bets without the customary Bet Slip.
Checkout the latest Pinnacle review here.
BetVictor Sportsbook 🏒
BetVictor Ontario sportsbook is rapidly building a reputation among Ontario's sports betting community. With a diverse lineup of over 30 sports, from the popular NFL to niche passions like volleyball and cycling, there are more sports than can fit on one screen, so the operator was forced to list them A-Z.
A particular strength lies in its tailored odds, especially within the North American Big Six leagues and the Canadian Elite Basketball League with which BetVictor has signed a special partnership. This partnership extends to integrated broadcasts, live streams, and various media platforms.
Where BetVictor truly shines is its highly-rated mobile app, boasting an impressive 4.8 on the App Store. The app's clean, user-friendly interface emphasizes easy navigation, positioning the betting menu below the home screen to ensure the main betting offers are front and center.
Beyond its sleek design, the app is a powerhouse of features. The BetBuilder, for instance, allows users to craft custom Same Game Parlay bet combinations for the NFL and other big leagues. BetVictor's app ensures bettors have the tools and the opportunities to maximize their betting strategy, making it an undeniable top choice in Ontario.
See the latest BetVictor review here.
PointsBet Sportsbook 🔴
PointsBet Ontario has fought its way to the top of Ontario’s sports betting market on the basis of its successful outing in the US. Players are already accustomed to PointsBet’s unusual spreads offering low or virtually no juice, which is one of the company’s unique features.
Speaking of features, PointsBet has introduced daily parlay option that allow you to build any 3+ Same Game Parlay of your choosing.. Another notable feature PointsBet is proud of is the Live Same Game Parlay that lets you build Same Game Parlays right in the middle of the action on NFL and NBA markets, two out of five most wagered-on competitions in Ontario.
The PointsBet app has a 4.7 rating based on 2k reviews on the App Store and a 4.3 rating based on 11k reviews on the Google Play Store, the latter being one of the best ratings out of all Ontario betting apps.
Checkout the latest PointsBet review here.
BetMGM Sportsbook 🦁
BetMGM sportsbook is a household name in the betting and casino business and one of the most popular books in Ontario. The choice at BetMGM covers pretty much anything you can imagine, with the NBA being one of the brightest stars of its betting constellation. NBA enthusiasts are not just treated to the standard fare of spread, total, and moneyline bets but a plethora of player and team props that span the entire season.
For those with a passion for the NFL, BetMGM doesn't disappoint. Beyond offering an astounding array of over 130 unique wagers for a single game, their commitment to variety truly stands out. While bettors can expect the usual spread, total, and moneyline options for full games and first halves, the platform's extensive alternative spreads and totals — boasting more than 30 unique half-point options — distinguish it from the crowd.
But BetMGM's appeal isn't limited to pre-game offerings. The platform excels in live betting, often showcasing industry-leading odds. Live streaming and a vast assortment of in-game player props are also available, a feature not prevalent at other sportsbooks.
The Event View option for live betting gives a detailed statistical overview of the match in question, as well as the main wagers for that event, which helps you track the line movement. And while newcomers might find the interface initially challenging, regular bettors often praise the app’s evolving intuitiveness, which has led to its 4.7 rating on the App Store.
See the latest BetMGM review here.
TonyBet Sportsbook ⚽
TonyBet sportsbook has carved out a unique niche for itself in Ontario. It offers mainstay sports like tennis, soccer, and MMA but takes an unexpected detour by overlooking golf entirely. Instead, it spotlights less conventional sports like biathlon and ski jumping. The platform's "Favourites" section, highlighting table tennis, volleyball, and handball fixtures, further emphasizes its unconventional approach, straying from what many Ontario sports enthusiasts might predict.
It seems the operator has put its stock in esports offerings. While not explicitly labeled as "eSports" in the side menu, but rather eBasketball or eCounter Strike, enthusiasts will find gems like League of Legends, Counter-Strike, and Dota 2, signaling Tonybet's strong foothold in the burgeoning esports market.
Upon logging in, users are greeted with a cascade of betting options. TonyBet, in its quest for user-friendliness, presents these options in a straightforward line on the main screen. Simplifying the experience further, the platform has updated traditional betting codes like “1”, “X,” and “2” to more intuitive labels such as W1, TIE, and W2 to make the betting process smoother for newcomers who might have been confused with the traditional designation.
The TonyBet review can be viewed here.
BetRivers Sportsbook ⚡
BetRivers sportsbook might be a second-tier sportsbook, but it’s certainly mounting a challenge for the big leagues. First, the operator offers great odds through its House Specials section, where bettors can find enhanced odds for some of the most innovative wagers in Ontario.
Moreover, BetRivers has a dedicated tab called Prop Central, where all the latest team and player props for MLB, EPL, and MLS await. The detailed stats section and tips it provides set BetRivers apart from the competition. For every popular fixture, you can find a preview with special Genius Facts — facts from the previous matchups of the two teams or players and Genius Predictor — a tool that lets you input the factors important to you and get a mystery bet corresponding to your input.
The operator has also provided consistently good pricing on all major North American sports, especially on the player props released as each game's start draws nearer.
See the latest BetRivers review here.
LeoVegas 🟠
LeoVegas was founded in 2012 and exists as a subsidiary of MGM Gaming and Resorts. With that kind of prestigious backing, Canadians can expect a superior sports betting experience.
Bettors will find an impressive array of sports betting market, from the most popular (NFL and NBA) to lesser-known or niche sports (cycling or rugby, for example). So whether you want to bet on Vladdy Jr. to smash a home run for the Blue Jays or on a La Liga soccer team to pick up three points in their next game, LeoVegas covers all the angles.
Learn more with our detailed LeoVegas review.
Stake.com 🟦
Stake is emerging as a popular option for bettors in Ontario, with partnerships with the UFC, Everton FC, and hip-hop icon Drake as its celebrity spokesman.
Although Stake doesn't have native mobile apps yet, it's desktop website is perfectly optimized for mobile devices. You'll barely notice you're not actually using an app, which is a great thing. One of Stake's best features is offering instant deposits and withdrawals using cryptocurrencies, something many competing sportsbooks have stayed away from so far.
To learn more about this ON betting site, head over to our detailed Stake review.
How to bet on sports in Ontario
1. Choose your sportsbook
Consult our top list above for the best sports betting apps. Our interactive list allows you to sort sportsbooks based on a number of criteria, including banking options, betting apps, and quality of customer service.
If you’re looking for more information before making your choice, check out our detailed, unbiased reviews for each of the top sportsbooks in Ontario.
2. Register online
Registration requirements vary slightly by sportsbook, but most follow the same protocols. Be sure to have your personal information (name, address, phone number) and credit card details (number, expiry date, CVV) handy. To expedite your first withdrawal process, it's also a good idea to confirm your identity as soon as possible. This will expedite your withdrawal process and best online sportsbook for payouts.
3. Select and finalize your bet
Congratulations! You’re ready to place a wager. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the app interface before diving in. Most mobile operators make it easy for new sports bettors to navigate, but it’s still a good idea to know where everything is.
From there, you can usually place any wager you like; the most popular bet types are the moneyline, spread, or total. You can also dive into team or player props or even kick things off with a futures bet.
Once you have the desired wager(s) in your betting card, take one last look to ensure you’ve made the selections you want. If everything is good, click the “Bet” button – and you’re off! Please play responsibly.
Ontario sports leagues & teams to bet on
Ontario has plenty of pro sports teams that call it home, plus a few others that exist just across the Canada/U.S. borders in Buffalo and Detroit.
NBA 🏀 | NFL 🏈 | MLB ⚾ | CFL 🏈 | NHL 🏒 | MLS ⚽ |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Toronto Raptors | Buffalo Bills | Toronto Blue Jays | Toronto Argonauts | Toronto Maple Leafs | Toronto FC |
Detroit Lions | Detroit Tigers | Hamilton Tiger-Cats | Ottawa Senators | ||
Ottawa Redblacks |
Here’s a look at the sports betting partnership situations with the major pro teams that play their home games in Ontario:
🏀 Toronto Raptors betting
The 2018-19 NBA champions are fittingly aligned with one of the top sportsbook operators in the world. Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which operates the Raptors and Toronto Maple Leafs, among other franchises, entered into a multi-year agreement with PointsBet Canada just a week after sports betting went live. Residents looking at basketball options can see NBA betting sites and March Madness betting sites.
🏒 Toronto Maple Leafs betting
PointsBet will serve as the Official Sports Betting Partner for all of MLSE’s pro teams, most notably the Maple Leafs. But that’s not the only sportsbook MLSE has aligned with: three days before its agreement with PointsBet, it signed a partnership deal with FanDuel, an agreement that will see FD signage prominently featured during games.
🏒 Ottawa Senators betting
Much of the focus on the Ontario sports picture is in Toronto and on NHL betting sites, but Ottawa would kindly like to remind everyone that it, too, has a horse in the race. The Senators have partnered with Sports Venture Holdings, which operates Bet99 Sportsbook.
⚾ Toronto Blue Jays betting
You only need to watch about 30 seconds of a Blue Jays game on TV or in person to know with whom they’re aligned. theScore Bet signed a 10-year partnership with the team, which includes signage and VIP seating, along with plans to construct a year-round sports bar and restaurant inside Rogers Centre.
⚽ Toronto FC betting
Toronto FC is one of Ontario's youngest pro teams, playing their first season in Major League Soccer back in 2007. While on-field results have been inconsistent (to put it nicely), the team did manage to string together a brief window of success with multiple trophies, including the treble-winning season of 2017. FanDuel and other sportsbook marketing is prominent throughout BMO Field, the club's home stadium.
🏈 CFL and NFL betting
Ontario is home to three of nine Canadian Football League teams: the Toronto Argonauts, Ottawa Redblacks, and Hamilton Ti-Cats. The CFL has an ongoing partnership with Evoke's 888casino, which includes sponsorship and branding activities.
While the Grey Cup draws betting interest every year, the NFL still reigns supreme as the football betting favorite in Ontario. Despite a lack of Canadian teams, there are still many NFL betting options available to Ontarians. You can get in on the daily action with the best prop betting sites and parlay betting sites, or explore futures with the top Super Bowl betting sites.
It will come as no surprise to see a rather extensive list of major professional and amateur sports available to Ontario bettors – and best sportsbooks Canada - a list that includes (but is not limited to):
- NFL
- NCAA Football
- NBA
- NCAA Basketball
- MLB
- NHL
- Golf
- Auto Racing
- Tennis
- Soccer
- MMA
- Entertainment (including major awards ceremonies)
- Esports
- Politics
Sports bettors can check out the best sportsbooks for specific sports, leagues, playoffs, and categories.
What you can (and can't) bet on in Ontario
Ontario, like every other province, has its own set of rules and regulations. Luckily, Ontario has a fairly liberal set of betting rules, with very few betting markets off limits.
Politics ✅
Betting on politics is perfectly legal in Ontario. BetMGM has some of the best odds for the 2024 U.S. Presidential Elections, including the election winner and the winning party. More bets will be added as we come closer to the actual elections. For more information on placing political bets, check out our guide to the best political betting sites in Canada.
Entertainment award ceremonies ✅
Entertainment awards are among the sanctioned betting markets in Ontario, and the Academy Awards are the most popular event to bet on in the province. The odds for the Best Picture winner are released pretty early, but more categories, such as Best Actor, Actress, Director, Score, and all other supporting categories, are added as we approach the event.
Esports ✅
Esports move the needle in Ontario’s betting market. Virtually all sportsbooks offer betting on CS:GO, League of Legends, and other notable competitions. TonyBet is one of the leading Ontario sports betting apps when it comes to esports. It has separate categories for eSoccer, and eBasketball, and includes DOTA, King of Glory, and Overwatch, which you won’t find in most other betting apps in the province.
Casinos ✅
The Ontario iGaming market is home to both Ontario online casinos and sportsbooks. Over 90% of all regulated operators have been licensed for both verticals. Interestingly enough, DraftKings has focused solely on its sports betting product, unlike arch-rival FanDuel. Players can access thousands of slots and table games, including live dealer games from Evolution and other notable providers.
What About College Sports? ✅
Betting on college sports is allowed in Ontario without any limitations regarding the local teams. The reason for this lies in the fact that Ontarians usually bet on NCAA tournaments, most notably the NCAA Basketball and NCAA Football. March Madness is heavily bet on, with sportsbooks offering props, futures, and various challenges to keep the players engaged. Live betting on college sports is also allowed, so you can have a full spectrum of bets at your disposal when creating that betslip.
Banned Ontario betting markets ❌
There are only a few bans regarding sports, competitions, and occurrences you can’t bet on in Ontario. Namely, bets on minor league sports in Canada, including the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), are off-limits. That includes the OHL minor hockey league.
Betting on business assets and financial markets is also prohibited, as well as lottery products and bets on lottery outcomes.
Ontario sports this week
Here's a look at the action for Dec. 9 - 15:
NBA: Toronto Raptors vs. New York Knicks | Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m. ET |
NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs @ New Jersey Devils | Dec. 10 at 7:00 p.m. ET |
NHL: Ottawa Senators vs. Anaheim Ducks | Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. ET |
NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Anaheim Ducks | Dec. 12 at 7:00 p.m. ET |
NHL: Ottawa Senators @ Carolina Hurricanes | Dec. 13 at 7:00 p.m. ET |
NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs @ Detroit Red Wings | Dec. 14 at 7:00 p.m. ET |
NHL: Ottawa Senators vs. Pittsburgh Penguins | Dec. 14 at 7:00 p.m. ET |
NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Buffalo Sabres | Dec. 15 at 5:00 p.m. ET |
Ontario sports betting key developments & updates
Nov. 27, 2024: In the second day of arguments for the Ontario government's reference to the Court of Appeal, several Canadian lotteries push back on the province's plan for global liquidity with DFS and online poker, questioning the proposal's legality.
Nov. 26, 2024: Ontario's provincial government meets for the first of three scheduled days of arguments seeking clarity on the potential legality of DFS and online poker in the province.
Nov. 2024: FanDuel offers new Taylor Swift odds tied to the pop megastar's six-night Toronto residency from Nov. 14-23, including Celebrity Guest Appearance on Stage, Surprise Song, and whether Swift announces a "Taylor's Version" of a previous album at one of the shows.
Oct. 1, 2024: Canadian government considering a new set of rules that would impact Canada sports betting advertisements.
Sept. 4, 2024: The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) unveils new sports betting platform in the province, PROLINE.
Aug. 16, 2024: The province of British Columbia files court documents alleging that international online gambling sites, including those regulated in Ontario, are illegally marketing to BC residents.
Aug. 12, 2024: Ontario government will be looking for court ruling sometime in the fall on whether or not Ontario online regulated bettors can play with individuals outside of Canada.
June 12. 2024: Canadian Gaming Summit (CGS) to take place in Toronto, Ontario from June 18-20.
June 7, 2024: Subject of sports betting advertising in Canada moves to Canadian Senate.
May 30, 2024: The RBC Canadian Open is underway, and Ontario sports bettors are showing lots of love to the Canadian golfers in the field. BetMGM Sportsbook said it took more wagers on the event from Ontario than any other jurisdiction it operates in. BetMGM also mentioned that seven of the top 20 most-bet players to win the event are Canadian.
May 24, 2024: NorthStar Gaming Holdings Inc. announces $218 million in total wagers during the first quarter of 2024.
May 10, 2024: The WNBA will reportedly add Toronto as the 14th franchise in the league and begin play in 2026.
Mar. 26, 2024: Ontario regulator monitoring NBA Prop betting probe regarding a Toronto Raptors player.
Mar. 8, 2024: NHL microbetting markets announced as coming to Caesars Sportsbook.
Feb. 28, 2024: A ban on the use of athletes and celebrities in commercials and on site copy promoting online gambling in Ontario goes into effect effective immediately.
Feb. 1, 2024: The Levy family (theScore) are leaving PENN Entertainment two years after the company acquired theScore. This was a 'planned leadership transition' according to a release.
Jan. 19, 2024: Ontario's iGaming market totaled $17.2 billion in wagers for the three-month period (ended Dec. 31)
Dec. 19, 2023: Sarah-Eve Pelletier, Canada's first sport integrity commissioner, announces she will step down in early 2024. A successor has yet to be named.
Aug. 29, 2023: AGCO announces changes to advertising in Ontario, prohibiting the use of athletes to promote internet gaming in ads.
Aug. 18, 2023: Woodbine Entertainment and bet365 announce that horse racing is now available to Ontario sports bettors through bet365’s Ontario site.
July 27, 2023:Gaming Ontario appoints Heidi Reinhart as the new Chair
July 26, 2023: STX becomes the first regulated betting exchange in Ontario.
July 19, 2023: iGaming publishes the first FY 2023-24 Q1 market report, indicating that sports betting contributed $2 billion out of the total $14 billion wagered online.
June 28, 2023: iGaming Ontario was said to have been reviewing 28 new licence requests.
May 15, 2023: Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Ontario calls on the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) to ban all advertising for online gambling.
December 1, 2022: AGCO requested that all registered iGaming operators stop offering and accepting wagers on Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) events due to issues regarding non-compliance with AGCO’s betting integrity requirements.
April 19, 2022: There are already 30 official sports betting apps in the market.
April 4, 2022:Ontario officially gives its iGaming market the green light.
June 29, 2021: Bill C-218 receives royal assent. Single-game sports betting is officially legalized in Canada.
September 9, 2021: The AGCO has finalized the regulatory standards for Ontario's iGaming market.
Legal sports betting & regulations in Ontario
While Canada and Ontario permitted sports betting before, it remained confined mainly to parlay-style wagers via provincial lotteries. This landscape experienced a significant shift with the introduction of Bill C-218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, on June 22, 2021.
The legislation empowered provinces to sanction single-game sports betting, paving the way for a more comprehensive betting ecosystem. Recognizing this potential, Ontario announced the inauguration of legal sports betting to commence on April 4, 2022. This transformative step encouraged major operators like Bet365, 888, and Unibet, previously anchored in Ontario's grey market, to transition into a transparent regulatory framework under the auspices of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
AGCO has established a special unit called iGaming Ontario to license private gaming operators and manage the iGaming industry. Its duties involve ensuring that operators abide by the rules of the Operating Agreements they signed with the AGCO and that all consumer protection policies, programs, and procedures are upheld at all times.
Before Bill C-218's introduction, the legal landscape was dominated by parlay wagers like OLG ProLine. In contrast, offshore bookmakers, leveraging the legal ambiguities, amassed approximately $4 billion annually.
As part of the new regulations, these platforms are mandated to pay a $100,000 licensing fee and a 20% tax on their respective revenues.
The AGCO's diligent efforts in crafting their iGaming program were instrumental in diversifying the sportsbooks on offer from April 4, 2022. BetRivers, BetMGM, and other big-time operators went live on Ontario's first legal sports betting day.
Ontario’s Online and Mobile Sportsbooks
Ontario has modernized its sports betting scene, offering sophisticated online and mobile platforms from private gaming operators. Before Caesars, FanDuel, and BetMGM were permitted to enter the market, Ontario bettors had only Proline — a parlay-based system.
Now, with these platforms — and according to iGaming Ontario, there are 28 Ontario betting apps — individuals can conveniently engage in single-game wagers wherever they are within the province's confines. Geolocation is used to pinpoint your location when betting.
Since April 4, 2022, any bettor physically present in Ontario has the green light to place legal bets on any of the approved best sports betting apps in Canada (assuming they're available in Ontario). The entire digital betting ecosystem is under the vigilant watch of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), ensuring every bet is placed in a fair, transparent, and secure environment.
Land-Based Ontario Sportsbooks
Ontario's land-based sportsbook scene has seen remarkable growth recently. The Caesars Sportsbook in Windsor led this evolution, marking its presence as the province's first comprehensive brick-and-mortar sportsbook when it opened on January 11, 2023. The venue boasts three dedicated booking windows, seven user-friendly kiosks, and an ambiance accentuated with 22 large screens in a sprawling 1,618-square-foot setting
Before this, in October 2022, the landscape had already started to shift. Great Canadian Entertainment introduced the province to four of its premier sportsbook lounges. Not to be left behind, industry giants like Fallsview rolled out retail sportsbook amenities across various Ontario locations.
However, it's essential to highlight that, despite these advancements at the brick-and-mortar level, the digital realm continues to dominate, echoing the US trend where online platforms contribute to over 90% of the total sports betting turnover.
Retail sportsbooks in Ontario
Although many bettors find it more convenient to bet online from their PC or smartphone, Ontario sports fans do have plenty of retail options too. There are at least 11 Ontario casino locations that include retail sports betting, plus more than 10,000 Pro-Line kiosks at third-party locations around the province. You can also use the ProLine+ website and app to
Full-service sportsbooks
Caesars Windsor
Caesars is in a unique position in the province of Ontario compared to its competitors. While they’re all entering the legal sports betting market here for the first time, Caesars Entertainment has been operating the government-owned Caesars Windsor Hotel & Casino since 1994.
In 2006, the first licensed sportsbook was opened in the casino at Legends Sports Bar, which offers a 6,458 square foot viewing area. You can still participate in "Game Picks" here, which is more of the old-school Ontario Lottery, parlay-type betting system, but the casino does not provide a traditional sportsbook.
The casino is publicly owned by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.
Sportsbook lounges
These locations don't have quite as many features as Caesars Windsor, but still have plenty of food/drink options and screens to watch the game on.
- Pickering Casino Resort - Pickering, ON
- Great Blue Heron Casino Resort - Port Perry, ON
- Elements Casino Brantford - Brantford, ON
- Shorelines Casino - Belleville, ON
Sportsbook kiosks
Casinos with sports betting kiosks are fairly bare bones, without many of the amenities that lounges offer. However, you can still place your wagers with ease.
- Casino Woodbine - Etobicoke, ON
- Elements Casino Mohawk - Milton, ON
- Elements Casino Grand River - Elora, ON
- Elements Casino Flamboro - Hamilton, ON
- Shorelines Casino - Peterborough, ON
- Shorelines Casino - Gananoque, ON
Responsible gambling in Ontario
Just as Ontario sports bettors have a buffet of sportsbook options, they also have access to a wealth of responsible gambling resources.
To ensure that you are fully protected as a bettor, you want to make sure you're playing with sportsbooks licensed and regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and its subsidiary, iGaming Ontario.
Gaming Operators that have successfully registered with the AGCO and have executed an operating agreement with iGO can legally offer their games to players in Ontario. Through these relationships, gaming revenues are shared with the Government of Ontario to be used in support of provincial priorities.
As part of their agreement with the AGCO and iGO, online sportsbooks and casinos operating in Ontario must acquire and maintain responsible gambling accreditation through the Responsible Gambling Council’s RG Check program to ensure a high standard of responsible gambling operations. The RGC is a respected, independent non-profit organization with more than 35 years of experience as a leader in the prevention of problem gambling in Canada and globally.
iGaming Ontario also requires operators to run problem gambling prevention and responsible gambling advertisement campaigns. The goal is to balance responsible gambling advertising and promotional marketing, which is also common in more mature legal betting markets like the UK.
PlaySmart.ca provides players with counseling services, tools, and advice aimed at helping sports bettors avoid trouble spots and make good decisions.
Those who find themselves in the grips of gambling addiction can take things one step further by accessing ConnexOntario, which provides free and confidential assistance.
The legal age for gambling in Ontario is 19+. Please play responsibly.
Ontario’s first betting exchange STX
STX, a company that revolves around real-time trading markets, went live in 2022.
That’s a significant development for the Ontario gaming market as STX's launch as the province’s first sports betting exchange could be the start of something special in the industry.
With Ontario having authorized iGaming, retail wagering, and online betting in April 2022, the entry of a new player like STX could enhance competition and potentially offer more options and better experiences for bettors.
Ontario teams and sportsbook partnerships
Ontario is home to teams in MLB, CFL, NBA, MLS and NHL and with that comes partnerships in the betting scene for some of the teams.
Ontario team | League | Sports betting partner |
---|---|---|
Toronto Maple Leafs 🏒 | NHL | FanDuel, PointsBet, PokerStars |
Toronto Argonauts 🏈 | CFL | FanDuel, PointsBet, PokerStars |
Toronto Blue Jays ⚾ | MLB | theScore Bet |
TFC ⚽ | MLS | FanDuel, PointsBet, PokerStars |
Toronto Marlies 🏒 | AHL | FanDuel, PointsBet, PokerStars |
Toronto Raptors 🏀 | NBA | FanDuel, PointsBet, PokerStars |
Ontario sportsbook banking options
Banking options for Ontario bettors have plenty of options at their disposal for both deposits and withdrawals. Most minimum deposit options are in the $10-$20 range.
Sports Betting Deposit Options
- Online banking
- Interac
- VISA
- Mastercard
- Debit cards
- PayPal
- Apple Pay
Sports Betting Withdrawal Options
- PayPal
- Debit cards
- Interac
Expect withdrawals to take 1-5 business days.
Provincial sports betting guides
Province by province legal online betting is ever changing with buzz around Alberta becoming the next province to go live in the near future.
Here are your guides to some of the sports betting scenes around Canada.
iGaming Ontario sports betting handle
iGaming Ontario released numbers after it's second year, and the figures are of significance. Here's a few noteworthy items from the report:
"March 31 marked the end of the fourth quarter of Ontario's fiscal year, and we now know that $17.8 billion in accepted wagers during the quarter resulted in a whopping $63 billion in bets for the full year.
iGaming revenue figures of $2.4 billion resulted from the impressive yearlong handle after reporting $690 million in Q4 revenues."
Year | Total handle | Revenue |
---|---|---|
2024 | TBD | TBD |
2023 | $59.3B | $2.26B |
2022 | $21.64B | $886M |
How we rate & review Ontario sportsbooks
With over 30 sportsbooks in the province, SBR looked at all the operators and carefully reviewed the pros and cons to ensure the user of the most accurate info. We took pride in offering the best knowledge with the terms and conditions along with any other questions a user might have. We looked at website interface, best apps and much more to determine the best ratings.
Why trust SBR?
We hold ourselves to the highest standards in assessing these sites, ensuring you can quickly distinguish the top contenders from the rest. Our comprehensive reviews and comparisons save you time and effort, letting you focus on what really matters: finding the best site for you.
With our expert insights, you can confidently choose a betting site that meets your needs and preferences, making your online sports betting experience smooth, safe and enjoyable.
Ontario sports betting FAQ
When did sports betting go live in Ontario?
The full-fledged sports betting industry in Ontario went live on April 4, 2022, allowing everyone older than 19 and physically located in Ontario to bet on Sports Interaction, Tonybet, Caesars, and other notable betting apps.
What sportsbooks are legal in Ontario?
Among the legal sportsbooks in Ontario, we can highlight Sports Interaction, bet365, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, LeoVegas, BetRivers, and many other leading betting operators.
Can I legally wager on sports in the state of Ontario?
Yes! Online sports wagering officially began in Ontario on April 4, 2022.
Are sports betting apps legal in Ontario?
Yes, sports betting apps are perfectly legal in Ontario.
Am I permitted to bet in Ontario even if I don’t live there?
You can create an account, deposit, make bets and withdraw using any regulated mobile sports betting app in Ontario, as long as you are within provincial borders. Be sure to complete all of your transactions before you leave, however. Once you’re outside the state, you will no longer be able to access your account(s).
Can I use online sportsbooks that aren’t partners of the sports venue I’m in?
You certainly can! Any regulated mobile sports betting app should work in whatever Ontario-based sports venue you’re in at that time.
Can I bet on any Ontario-based team?
You can wager on any Ontario-based pro sports team, as long as sportsbooks are offering odds.
Can I bet on eSports in Ontario?
Absolutely! Ontario’s sports betting legislation includes e-sports options.
How big is the Ontario sports betting market?
Ontario is the largest market in Canada and the fifth-largest among states and provinces with a population of nearly 15 million people (2022 estimate).
How much tax do online sportsbooks pay in Ontario?
Operators are required to pay a 20 percent tax on gross gaming revenue.
Who is responsible for overseeing sports betting in Ontario?
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario has jurisdiction over sports betting in the province. You’ll find plenty of information on the website, including directions for self-exclusion, laws and regulations, and answers to general betting questions.
Will there be more online sportsbook operators in Ontario in the future?
There are 30 sportsbooks in Ontario as of May, 2023.