DraftKings to Launch in Washington D.C. Sports Betting Market in Partnership with D.C. United

DraftKings, a significant name in fantasy sports and sports betting, is gearing up to step into Washington, D.C.’s fresh and open sports betting market. This strategic move is being made in collaboration with Major League Soccer’s D.C. United, pending the necessary regulatory green lights and licenses.

Legislative Shifts in D.C.

The backdrop for DraftKings’ entry is a series of legislative changes in Washington, D.C. Lawmakers recently ed the Sports Wagering Amendment Act of 2024, included in the city’s newest budget. This pivotal amendment has opened up the sports betting market, transitioning from a previously exclusive arrangement to a more competitive landscape.

Before this legislative shift, FanDuel was the exclusive sports betting provider in D.C., operating as a subcontractor for Intralot. This arrangement came into place after widespread dissatisfaction with GambetDC, which was the city’s sole operator before FanDuel took over. The change was driven by significant performance complaints regarding GambetDC, paving the way for FanDuel’s exclusive role.

DraftKings is planning to bring a robust and -friendly sports betting experience to D.C. bettors. The company aims to provide a wide array of markets and betting options, catering to diverse interests and preferences. In addition to its extensive offerings, DraftKings is also emphasizing responsible gaming. Features like deposit limits and a new wagering statistics tracker will be available to help players manage their activities responsibly.

A Competitive Environment

The sports betting scene in Washington, D.C. is heating up with several big names entering the fray. Just last week, both Caesars and BetMGM were given the go-ahead by the Office of Lottery and Gaming to launch their online sportsbooks in the district. This approval came despite the city’s budget not yet being signed by Mayor Muriel Bowser.

Prior to this, both Caesars and BetMGM had already established retail sportsbooks in D.C. BetMGM operates out of Nationals Park, and Caesars has a presence at Capital One Arena. These operators were previously restricted to accepting bets only within a two-block radius of their physical locations, a limitation lifted with the new open market structure.

With DraftKings entering this open market, the competition is set to become even more intense. The company’s partnership with D.C. United could provide a strategic advantage, tapping into the MLS team’s fan base to attract bettors. DraftKings’ comprehensive offerings and commitment to responsible gaming might also help it stand out in a crowded field.

As DraftKings prepares to launch its online sportsbook, it s a growing list of operators in Washington, D.C.’s newly competitive sports betting market. The presence of established competitors like Caesars and BetMGM, along with FanDuel’s operations, ensures a vibrant and dynamic environment where multiple companies will compete for market share.

“It has been incredible to see legalized sports betting grow rapidly over the past six years, and with plans to launch our online sportsbook in D.C., DraftKings looks forward to expanding its presence in more than half the country,” said DraftKings North America President Matt Kalish. “We would like to thank the D.C. Council for creating a path to bring DraftKings’ top-rated sportsbook to the nation’s capital.”

Source:

”Washington, D.C. emerges as potential new market for DraftKings”, sbcamericas.com, July 23. 2024.