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Caesars Entertainment has established a new retail sportsbook at Northfield Park Racino near Cleveland, stepping in immediately after MGM Resorts International finalized the sale of the property’s casino operations. The transition follows Clairvest Group Inc.’s acquisition of the operating assets, valued at $546 million, which led to the venue’s rebranding from MGM Northfield Park to its current name.
The racino underwent a brief closure to complete the ownership handover before reopening with its updated identity. Caesars’ partnership with Clairvest marks a continuation of changes at the site, which has now shifted operators multiple times in recent years. MGM originally purchased the property from Hard Rock International in 2019 and rebranded it before deciding to divest the asset.
MGM explained its reasoning in a statement tied to the transaction. “The closing of this transaction underscores the value of MGM’s high-quality operations and provides an opportunity to divest a non-strategic regional asset at a significantly higher multiple than currently ascribed to our premium portfolio,” said Chief Financial Officer Jonathan Halkyard. “The proceeds will be deployed in line with our priorities of maintaining a strong balance sheet, selectively investing in growth opportunities, and returning capital to shareholders.”
New Sportsbook Brings Expanded Betting Experience
The newly opened Caesars Sportsbook introduces an in-person wagering environment designed to attract sports fans across Northeast Ohio. The facility includes a large LED video wall for live sports viewing, five betting windows staffed by employees, and self-service kiosks available around the clock. Visitors can place wagers on a wide selection of sporting events while also linking their activity to Caesars Rewards.
The venue integrates closely with Caesars’ digital platform, allowing customers to deposit and withdraw funds through the mobile app. Each wager contributes to loyalty points that can be redeemed for various benefits, including travel, entertainment, and gaming perks across Caesars properties.
Eric Hession, President of Caesars Digital, emphasized the strategic importance of the location. “Northfield Park Racino gives us a strong new venue to connect with Northeast Ohio sports fans in a high-traffic entertainment destination,” he said. “Its location just outside Cleveland, a market defined by some of the most passionate sports fans in the country, pairs our industry-leading technology with a lively atmosphere that enhances how fans watch and wager on sports throughout the year.”
The addition also strengthens the racino’s overall entertainment mix. General Manager Kevin Brady highlighted the impact on the property’s existing offerings. “We’re excited to partner with Caesars Sportsbook to bring even more energy and excitement to our guest experience,” he said. “This collaboration is a strong addition to our Overtime Bar and Grill, enhancing the overall sports fan atmosphere and entertainment offering.”
Broader Strategy in Ohio and Beyond
The Northfield Park opening represents another step in Caesars’ effort to expand its presence in Ohio. The company already operates in-person betting at Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs in Columbus and maintains a partnership with the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers. Caesars plans to host a watch party at the new sportsbook during an upcoming Cavaliers playoff game, featuring alumni appearances and fan promotions.
The retail launch complements Caesars’ mobile sportsbook, which has grown since its introduction in 2021. The app includes features such as Same Game Parlays, player proposition bets, futures markets, and live in-play wagering. It also allows users to stream sporting events directly. A Universal Digital Wallet, now available in 27 jurisdictions, enables customers to manage funds across different regions.
Beyond Ohio, Caesars has also announced plans to take over race and sports operations at the Westgate SuperBook in Las Vegas later this year. That move will include expanded betting options such as additional parlays and live wagering, along with the installation of self-service kiosks throughout the property.