REPORT: Dan Snyder Asked Maryland for Gambling License in New Dome Stadium for Redskins

Dan Snyder has turned his attention to Maryland for a new Washington Redskins stadium. According to the Washington Post, Snyder asked Maryland legislative leaders for a gambling license in the team’s potential new stadium.

The Redskins are looking for a new stadium once their lease expires in 2027 at FedEx Field. They’ve had discussions with the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland.

Washington is the organization’s preferred site, however, it appears less likely the team would move to the old RFK Stadium site, as city leaders have been unable to obtain the federally-owned land.

Meanwhile, Snyder appears to want to stay in Maryland but wants sports betting at the new venue. Washington, DC has approved multiple sporting venues such as Nationals Park, Capital One Arena, the Entertainment and Sports Arena and Audi Field for legalize gambling. Only Capital One Arena, the home of the Capitals and Wizards, have landed a deal with a bookmaker.

From the story:

The lawmaker said Snyder made a “veiled threat” to go to Virginia if he does not get a license.

Another attendee summed up the Redskins owner’s message as: “If you don’t give it, I’m leaving. If you give it, maybe I’ll stay.” https://t.co/OLzQHCtCTw

— Rick Maese (@RickMaese) January 22, 2020

According to the Washington Post report, it’s believed the Redskins would build a dome stadium at the FedEx Field site that “could include hotels, offices and training facilities.”

Dan Snyder feels to stay competitive in the region a new stadium in Maryland would need a gambling license.

Snyder “does see that as part of his vision if he is to remain in Maryland,” the lawmaker said. “He is willing to build his own stadium, but he wants sports betting to be a part of that.”

The Redskins have previously had talks with the state about a land swap to build a new stadium near the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, however, those talks stalled when it appeared the team preferred a return to DC.

Legalized sports betting is expected to appear on voting ballots this November in Maryland. That would be the first step in approaching Snyder’s request.

DC appears to be out of the running for a new stadium and current Virginia Governor Ralph Northam doesn’t seem as interested as former Governor Terry McAullife once was. Snyder may be running out of options, but he is trying to land a favoring deal for the franchise in Maryland.