The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission has reported a record-breaking month for sports betting in the state. In November 2025, Nebraska’s five racetrack casinos generated over $1.5 million in sports wagers, surpassing the previous record of $1.2 million set the prior year.
WarHorse Properties Lead the Market
The surge in sports betting activity in Nebraska was primarily driven by the WarHorse properties in Omaha and Lincoln, which accounted for approximately $1.2 million of the total handle. Grand Island Casino Resort also posted significant gains, crossing the $200,000 threshold for the first time, an 80% increase compared to November 2024.
According to Grand Island General Manager Vince Fiala, the college football season was a primary catalyst for this growth. Bettors showed a strong preference for parlay bets, attracted by the higher potential payouts despite the increased difficulty of winning.
Overall Casino Sector Growth
The sports betting record comes amidst a broader period of growth for Nebraska’s casino industry. November marked the third-highest revenue month on record with $24.1 million. The state is projected to finish the year with approximately $260 million in total revenue, a massive 80% leap from 2024 figures. This growth has been fueled by the expansion of facilities, including the full opening of WarHorse Casino Omaha and the entry of Elite Casino Resorts into the market.
Eyes on 2026 Legislation
Despite these successes, the industry faces limitations due to the requirement for in-person betting. Legislation to allow online sports betting, introduced by Senator Eliot Bostar, stalled earlier this year but is expected to return to the floor in 2026. Proponents argue that an online model could generate an additional $32 million in annual tax revenue, which would be directed toward property tax relief. With 2025 delivering record revenues, the case for digital expansion is stronger than ever.
