Can you bet on esports in New York?
Not legally. New York’s licensed sportsbooks don’t offer esports betting, and we found no approval from the NY State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) for wagering on any esports event.
That puts New York behind neighbors such as New Jersey, where regulators approve specific esports events for betting.
What Empire State law says about esports wagering
New York’s sports betting law, Section 1367 of the Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law, defines a “sports event” as:
“any professional sport or athletic event and any collegiate sport or athletic event, except a prohibited sports event”
The statute never mentions esports, electronic sports or video game competitions. Without a clear legal basis or a published NYSGC approval, New York’s 8 live sportsbooks don’t post esports markets for New York customers, according to industry guides that track the market.
The law already bans several other kinds of bets, too. Wagers on New York college teams, college player props and high school sports are all off the board.
Which NY sportsbooks offer esports?
None, for bets placed in New York. FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, BetRivers, Fanatics, theScore Bet and Bally Bet are all licensed in the state, and several of them offer esports in other states where regulators allow it. Those markets aren’t available while you’re physically in New York.
For what the 8 licensed apps do offer, see our NY sportsbook rankings.
Esports in-play betting and pending NY bills
New York lawmakers are moving toward fewer bet types, not more. Assembly bill A9343, introduced by Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal, would bar casinos and mobile operators from taking bets once an event has started. It was pending in committee in 2026 and hasn’t passed.
The NYSGC has also been reviewing player props and same-game parlays since late 2025. At its March 16, 2026, meeting, the Commission’s chair said it could consider banning prop bets entirely if leagues didn’t engage. Our live betting guide explains what in-play markets New York apps offer today.
What about offshore sites and prediction markets?
Offshore sportsbooks that take esports bets from New Yorkers aren’t licensed in any U.S. state. If one withholds your winnings, no New York regulator can step in.
Prediction markets are in a legal fight of their own. New York has sued Kalshi and Polymarket, arguing their sports and event contracts are illegal gambling. Track the cases in our guide to prediction markets in New York.
Where esports betting is legal for New Yorkers
If you’re physically in a state that permits it, you can bet on approved esports events at that state’s licensed sportsbooks. New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement, for example, publishes a list of approved events that has included esports competitions.
The usual rules apply. You must be 21, located inside that state when you bet, and the app will block you once you’re back in New York.
Esports betting in New York FAQ
Is esports betting legal in New York?
No. New York’s sports betting law covers professional and collegiate athletic events, and the NYSGC hasn’t published approval for betting on any esports event.
Can I bet on League of Legends or Counter-Strike in NY?
Not at New York’s licensed sportsbooks. Any site taking those bets from you in New York is unlicensed.
Do FanDuel or DraftKings offer esports in New York?
No. Some licensed operators offer esports betting in other states, but those markets aren’t available to bettors located in New York.
Could New York legalize esports betting?
It would take either a law change or regulatory approval. As of October 2026, New York’s legislative focus has been on limiting bet types, such as in-play and props, rather than adding new ones.
What is the legal betting age in New York?
You must be 21 to bet on sports in New York, at a casino sportsbook or on a mobile app. For every other form of gambling, see New York gambling laws.
21+ and physically in New York. Gambling problem? Call or text 1-877-8-HOPENY (467369).