Penn National Gaming have announced that the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has approved a live, real money test period for its new Barstool Sportsbook mobile app in Pennsylvania from September 15-17, pending final iOS app approval.

Following the test period, Penn National intends to officially launch the Barstool Sportsbook app in Pennsylvania on September 18, subject to final regulatory approvals. The Company plans to introduce the Barstool Sportsbook app in additional states in the coming months.

“The Barstool Sportsbook app is the centerpiece of our Company’s omni-channel strategy,” said Jay Snowden, President and CEO of Penn National. “Since forming our exclusive sports betting and iGaming partnership with Barstool Sports in January, our product, marketing and operations teams have worked hand-in-hand with Barstool’s top talent, including Dave Portnoy and Dan ‘Big Cat’ Katz, to create a sports betting experience that we’re confident will appeal to Barstool’s army of loyal followers, as well as our extensive database of existing casino customers and sports betting fans at large.”

“As the only gaming operator with a fully integrated sports media and entertainment partner, our customers will have the opportunity to engage with Dave, Big Cat and other Barstool fan favorites on our app – including betting with them, or fading their picks,” continued Mr. Snowden. “Our customers will also have an opportunity to interact with Barstool personalities live at one of our many casinos’ retail Barstool Sportsbooks in the coming months.”

The “soft launch” test period from September 15-17 will be available to a limited number of pre-registered participants, who will be able to make real-money wagers and access all of the features and functionality of the Barstool Sportsbook. The Company will also work with regulators to test the system and make any refinements prior to the full launch anticipated for September 18.