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Bet365 Expands Valentine's Day Bonus to Maryland & Illinois

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  Published in Business and Finance on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 5:34 GMT by syracuse.com
      Locales: Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, UNITED STATES

February 16th, 2026 - Bet365, a global leader in online betting, is aggressively expanding its reach within the United States, recently extending its Valentine's Day bonus code offering from its initial launch state of Missouri to now include Maryland and Illinois. This strategic move, offering new users up to $200 in bonus bets, signals increased competition in the rapidly evolving US sports betting landscape.

Initially unveiled in Missouri, the promotion aimed to attract new customers during the traditionally slower sports calendar period surrounding Valentine's Day. The success of the Missouri launch, coupled with Bet365's recent entry into Maryland and Illinois, prompted the extension - a clear indication of confidence in the potential of these markets.

The Broader US Sports Betting Picture:

The US sports betting market has experienced exponential growth since the Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018. What was once a limited number of states offering legal sports betting has blossomed into a multi-billion dollar industry with a constantly expanding geographic footprint. Currently, over 38 states and the District of Columbia have legalized some form of sports betting, creating a fiercely competitive environment.

Companies like Bet365, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars Sportsbook, and others are vying for market share, employing various strategies including aggressive marketing campaigns, attractive bonus offers, and innovative platform features. The Valentine's Day bonus is just one example of these tactics. We've seen other operators leverage holidays and major sporting events - like the Super Bowl, March Madness, and the Olympics - to draw in new users.

Bet365's Expansion Strategy:

Bet365's expansion into the US has been more deliberate than some of its competitors. While DraftKings and FanDuel quickly launched in numerous states, Bet365 has focused on a more measured approach, prioritizing states with favorable regulatory environments and strong market potential. This allows them to build a sustainable presence and tailor their offerings to specific state preferences.

The launches in Maryland and Illinois are particularly significant. Illinois, with its large population and passionate sports fans, represents a major market opportunity. Maryland, though smaller, has demonstrated a strong appetite for sports betting since legalization. Both states also offer diverse betting options, including pre-game, in-play, and futures wagering.

Details of the Valentine's Day Bonus Code:

The Valentine's Day bonus code is relatively straightforward. New users who sign up for a Bet365 account, make a minimum deposit, and place a qualifying bet are eligible to receive bonus bets up to $200. While the exact terms and conditions are available on the Bet365 website, it's crucial for potential users to understand the requirements. These typically include a minimum deposit amount, specific wagering requirements (meaning the bonus bets must be wagered before winnings can be withdrawn), and restrictions on eligible bet types.

Looking Ahead:

Industry analysts predict that the US sports betting market will continue to grow in the coming years, though at a slightly slower rate than previously seen. Factors such as economic conditions, regulatory changes, and increased competition will all play a role. We can expect to see operators like Bet365 continuing to innovate and refine their strategies to attract and retain customers. This could include personalized offers, loyalty programs, and integration with other entertainment platforms.

Furthermore, the push for nationwide legalization remains a key objective for many in the industry. While a federal solution appears unlikely in the short term, the continued success of state-regulated sports betting is likely to put further pressure on lawmakers to address the issue. The expansion of Bet365's Valentine's Day offer is a small, but indicative, piece of this larger puzzle. It represents a growing market, fierce competition, and the ongoing quest to capture the attention - and wallets - of American sports fans.