DraftKings goes big on horseracing with 12-state racing app launch
Churchill Downs-powered DK Horse app goes live as firm eyes further state launches by the Kentucky Derby
DraftKings has rolled out its first-ever horseracing product DK Horse across 12 US states, with expectations to expand to even more by the Kentucky Derby in May.
The DK Horse app allows eligible customers to access pari-mutuel wagering on horseracing and is available on both the Google Play Store and App Store.
It will initially require customers to register and deposit funds into new accounts separately from their “one account, one wallet” tethered to DraftKings Sportsbook, Casino and daily fantasy sports apps.
DK Horse is powered by Churchill Downs International (CDI) technology, with the pair having signed a multi-year partnership development agreement in November 2022.
Using TwinSpires’ tech stack, DK Horse offers pari-mutuel wagering for all horseracing events owned or controlled by CDI, including the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby.
CDI also provides additional horseracing content on behalf of DraftKings as part of its commitment to the partnership.
DraftKings has said intends to fold DK Horse into its full product suite at some point in the future.
DraftKings CEO Jason Robins welcomed the launch of the DK Horse app, pointing to the exploration of the horseracing vertical as a potentially lucrative one for the firm.
“Together with Churchill Downs, an industry leader with a deep-rooted history in horseracing, we will deliver an innovative, mobile customer experience,” Robins said.
“Our goal is to provide our customers with best-in-class-sports and gaming products, and we expect DK Horse to provide a fun and new way to engage with renowned races like the upcoming Run for the Roses,” the DraftKings CEO added.