[image credit : ESL]
The Nevada Gaming Control Board has approved wagering on two Counter-Strike: Global Offensive competitions: the current seasons of the professional level ESL Pro League, and the German regional ESL Meisterschaft.
The state approved three different wager types for both leagues: head-to-head, winner of each match, and overall season winner. Anything else will require separate application and approval. Sports betting company William Hill has already informed Nevada regulators of its intent to take bets.
An important caveat is that acceptance of wagers must cease prior to the commencement of each match. While not explicitly stated, the remote-only play of these leagues creates issues when offering live odds, and ensuring competition remains as fair as in a Local Area Network (LAN) environment i.e. having all players in a studio or arena.
With the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic having canceled virtually all mainstream sports events, esports rapidly became one of the key events catered to by betting companies. Other esports competitions currently available through major online betting platforms include FIFA 20 matches, the ESL One Los Angeles Dota 2 competition, and the King Pro League in China.
