SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Irish igaming operator – Paddy Power is set to become the first igaming operator to trial ‘real money’ sports bets on social network Facebook. Paddy Power customers will be able to place bets with the bookmaker through its application on Facebook (application will be named Paddy In-Play). Facebook will restrict access to only UK and Ireland desktop customers.
The soon to be launched application will be the first to bring social engagement to sports betting. Paddy Power customers will be able to bet on a wide range of in-play sports betting markets, players will also be able to share thoughts and opinions on selections made and outcomes of events. All players who register to play on the application will be subject to strict age verifications checks.
Will Collins head of Social Gaming partnerships for Facebook commented:“Given the popularity of sportsbetting in the UK, we’re delighted to be welcoming Paddy Power onto the Facebook gaming platform with an innovative gaming experience.”
Peter O’Donovan MD of Paddy Power online commented:”The launch of the first real money sports betting product on Facebook is testament to Paddy Power’s e-commerce and technology capabilities as well as our international industry leadership position in social media.”
Facebooks Sean Ryan demonstrates Paddy Powers in-play Sports Betting application
