Online horse betting in Alabama is fully legal, both trackside and online. They are one of a number of states throughout the US that allow it along with greyhound racing as well.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for AL sports betting or AL online casinos.
Alabama Horse Betting Sites
Given that Alabama is notoriously strict with both their online and offline gambling policy, the legalization of horse racing betting is a massive positive. Not only are there state-run tracks, but there are also online options as well.
As a result, there are three sportsbooks that people in Alabama can use:
Between the three they are able to offer a wide range of features. One of the most popular is that of live streaming. This allows you to not only bet on horse races but also watch them as well. Most include the feature within their sportsbook app, so you can watch them when on the go.
The decision to allow horse racing in the state has been one that is definitely welcomed, but also a ruling that was not expected. Alabama is a heavily religious state, and many see gambling as a sin.
But that’s not actually the case, as what most have problems with is the fact that sports betting can be seen as “chance” and not skill. It could be argued either way on a number of different sports, but with horse racing, it can be a little less volatile.
You see, the sport doesn’t have a huge number of markets that you can bet on. Being able to back a winner in a race requires a lot of research. Coupled with the fact that horse racing has a rich history within the state, it is another factor to the acceptance of betting on the sport.
Alabama Horse Racing Tracks
There are 2 tracks that are currently offering horse racing within Alabama:
What is interesting is that neither of these tracks offers any live horse racing at all. In fact, only Birmingham has live racing in the form of greyhound races, with both offering simulcast horse racing from across the country on a daily basis.
Horse racing hasn’t been run at Birmingham since 1995. They tried to get it back in 2011 but the development and plans eventually fell through.
Given that the tracks are both open, it does allow for online horse racing betting to occur, making them a vital cog in the online gambling sector for Alabama.
