Penn National Gaming has been approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to proceed with a live, real money test period for its new Barstool Sportsbook mobile app in the state from September 15 to 17, pending final iOS app approval.

Following the test period, the firm said it intends to officially launch the Barstool Sportsbook app in the Keystone State on September 18, subject to final regulatory approvals. The app will be rolled out in additional states in the coming months.

Jay Snowden, President and CEO, commented: “The Barstool Sportsbook app is the centerpiece of our company’s omni-channel strategy. 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.”

He added: “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.

“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 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.

“I want to thank the PGCB and its staff for all their time and effort in reviewing and approving our app for this soft launch,” said Snowden. “I also want to thank all those who have been working tirelessly at Penn Interactive and our great partners at Barstool Sports for their many months of hard work and collaboration, as well as our risk management and platform providers, Kambi and White Hat Gaming

“This is an important milestone in our company’s continued evolution to be the leading omni-channel provider of retail and online gaming, live racing and sports betting entertainment, and we couldn’t be more excited to get underway.”