DraftKings launches online and retail betting in Illinois
Boston-based operator’s digital sportsbook joins Rush Street Interactive’s BetRivers.com in the Prairie State
DraftKings has rolled out its app in Illinois alongside a retail sportsbook at Casino Queen – now rebranded DraftKings at Casino Queen – across the Mississippi River from St Louis.
The Nasdaq-listed operator is the second to launch a mobile sportsbook in Illinois after Rush Street Interactive introduced its app and desktop products in late June.
This was after Governor Jay Pritzker had temporarily suspended the requirement for in-person mobile registrations as casinos and racetracks were closed due to coronavirus, allowing BetRivers to steal a march on the competition.
In-person registration was reinstated in late July for all brands, which means those wishing to bet with DraftKings will have to sign-up at DraftKings Casino Queen. They can download the app before visiting the property, though.
DraftKings co-founder, chairman and CEO Jason Robins said: “Illinois is home to some of the most passionate sports fans and most iconic sports teams in the entire country.
“DraftKings’ dedication to innovation and providing customers with a premier sports betting experience has made our app the top-rated option and we can’t wait for fans in Illinois to discover why.”
Meanwhile, Terry Downey, president of DraftKings at Casino Queen, remarked: “The marriage of two iconic brands promises to create an unforgettable experience that can only be found at DraftKings at Casino Queen. Fans will come to love the service, passion and innovation now available in our state.”
Illinois, which is home to a population of 12.6 million, is poised to attract a slew of betting options, with PointsBet set to launch soon while William Hill recently opened a sportsbook at Grand Victoria Casino Elgin near Chicago.
The fly in the ointment that will prevent the state from reaching its full potential is in-person registration. For instance, DraftKings Queen Casino is 300 miles from Chicago.
In late 2021, three online-only licenses are put for grabs in Illinois for a one-off fee of $20m each.