[image credit : Paddy Power]
Irish bookmaker Paddy Power is to become the first company to trial real-money sportsbetting on social networking website Facebook.
Paddy Power In-Play, an in-house developed product, is being trialled as a Facebook application for UK desktop customers; a market the social network has selected for the initial launch of real-money gambling on the platform.
The app will bring social engagement to online betting, allowing customers to bet on a range of sports through the website while also giving them the opportunity to engage with other users. Player participation will be subject to strict age verification checks.
Peter O’Donovan, Managing Director of Paddy Power Online, said, “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.”
Will Collins, Facebook’s Head of Social Casino Partnerships, added, “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.”