Virginia online horse betting is legal and the leading wagering providers are operational within the Old Dominion.
The state has followed the example of others across the United States in easing regulations regarding sports betting, although pari-mutuel wagering in Virginia has been active for over 30 years. As a result, residents have been able to bet in person, but the rise of advance deposit wagering sites has allowed the online industry to flourish. There is one racetrack in the Old Dominion, while off-site betting parlors are also available. You must be 18 years old to participate in horse betting in Virginia.
Horse Betting Sites in Virginia
The top Virginia online horse betting sites are as follows:
- TVG – One of the leaders in the horse betting industry. They provide their customers with an extensive range of markets and odds at great value.
- NYRA Bets – Provide users with intriguing bonus offers and comprehensive coverage of horse racing across the globe, boasting competitive prices on their odds.
- AmWager – Offer customers a fine product of horse racing markets and odds, matching their competitors.
Virginia Best Horse Betting Apps
These are the best Virginia horse racing apps on the market:
- TwinSpires – Provide a top product for their customers, allowing them to access markets, odds and transactions with ease. Available for both iOS and Android users.
- TVG – Their app has great functionality for iOS and Android users. It is also aesthetically pleasing, making betting and payments a simple process.
- AmWager – Offers a sound product for customers to deposit funds and place wagers without issue.
Top Three Bonus Offers in Virginia
Participants in horse betting in Virginia will have access to these offers.
- NYRA Bets – Provide a sizeable sign-up bonus up to $xxx with code XXXX.
- TVG – Offer a welcome bonus up to xx% of your initial deposit.
- TwinSpires – New users receive a welcome bonus up to $xxx.
Virginia Racetracks
There is one racetrack that is open for racing and horse betting in Virginia.
- Colonial Downs – The venue was opened in 1997 and has held thoroughbred and harness racing throughout its tenure. The Colonial Downs was closed down for five years before reopening in 2019. It has staged quality thoroughbred racing that attracts up to 13,000 spectators to the venue. It also provides an option for simulcasting wagering in Virginia.
Local and Major Horse Betting Events in Virginia
The Old Dominion does hold one major race that provides an opportunity for Virginia online horse betting sites to cater to thousands of interested parties – both locally and nationally.
The Virginia Derby is a grade three flat race that sees the leading owners, trainers and jockey compete for the crown. The ownership and trainer team of Peter Vesgo and William I. Mott have enjoyed the most success at the event, winning the Derby on three occasions.
Other events such as the Colonial Turf Cup and Virginia Oaks are no longer active in the region, limiting opportunities for wagering in Virginia.
Types of Horse Racing Bets in Virginia
These are the types of bets available on Virginia horse racing sites.
- Win – A simple wager to back the horse to win
- Place/Show – Back a horse to finish in the top two or three.
- Exacta/Trifecta – Where you attempt to guess the correct order of the finishing horses for first and second, or first, second and third.
- Quinella – This is where you bet on two or three horses to finish in the top two or three.
FAQ
Is Virginia Online Horse Betting Legal?
Yes. Virginia online horse betting is legal and residents have the option of using the leading online operators.
What Is the Legal Betting Age in Virginia?
Participants in horse betting in Virginia must be 18 years old. This rule applies to both online and in-person wagering at the racetrack and off-track betting parlors.
Do I Have to Pay Tax on Gambling Winnings in Virginia?
Yes. When wagering in Virginia you will have to pay tax on gambling winnings. If you earn $3,000 or less you are liable to pay up to 2%, but the rate can rise up to 5.75% based on your winnings. Winnings over $5,000 are subject to 24% in federal tax.