From iGaming Business

Irish bookmaker Paddy Power is to become the first company to trial real-money sportsbetting on social networking website Facebook.

Paddy Power In-Play, an in-house developed product, is being trialled as a Facebook application for UK desktop customers; a market the social network has selected for the initial launch of real-money gambling on the platform.

The app will bring social engagement to online betting, allowing customers to bet on a range of sports through the website while also giving them the opportunity to engage with other users. Player participation will be subject to strict age verification checks.

Peter O’Donovan, managing director of Paddy Power Online, said: “The launch of the first real money sports betting product on Facebook is testament to Paddy Power’s e-commerce and technology capabilities as well as our international industry leadership position in social media.”