DraftKings Mobile App Goes Live in Illinois

DraftKings is the number one sportsbook in the US–and their efficiency helps explain why. Evidence of this was seen once again as the DraftKings mobile app launched just two hours after the extension of remote registration for online betting.

We covered the story last week that Governor J.B. Pritzker had extended the deadline on remote registration until September 19. Here is the key part of the Governor’s order:

“During the duration of the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamations, the provisions in the Sports Wagering Act… requiring in-person creation of sports wagering account at a facility authorized pursuant to the Act in order to participate in sports wagering offered over the internet or through a mobile application, are suspended,”

 

Speedy Launch of the DraftKings Mobile App

DraftKings has gained itself a reputation for being a fierce competitor and that was evident by the speed with which the DraftKings mobile app was launched. Speaking following the launch, co-founder Jason Robins controversially tweeted:

“Feels so good to be taking mobile registrations in Illinois. Especially after the corrupt idiots at Rush Street Gaming tried to block us in the state. Over the long run, good policy always wins.”

The tweet has since been deleted but was reported in the Sun Times. Robins was referring to the claim by the owner of Rivers Casino that DraftKings isn’t playing by the rules with regards to taxes. We reported last month that Rivers Casino was granted approval for its sportsbook, and it was featured in our best Chicago casinos. Rivers is the only competition right now in Illinois for the DraftKings mobile app, with FanDuel expected to follow shortly.

 

The Forming of a Smart Partnership

With Rivers casino trying to block the launch of the app, and the State law mandating that only casinos can open sportsbooks, DraftKings had to get smart. St Louis looked to be the best option with Chicago sewn up and so a partnership with Casino Queen made perfect sense. On forming the partnership Robins released a press release stating:

“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.”

 

Clear Revenue To Be Gained In Illinois

As we have covered here, launching a casino in downtown Chicago, or across Illinois for that matter, is far from easy. Launching an online sportsbook, however, especially given the current climate, is a recipe for success. The DraftKings mobile app will be looking at taking up a large slice of the potential $600 million in operator revenue which is estimated to be on offer in the state.

President of Casino Queen Terry Downey spoke about the relationship between the casino and DraftKings, keen to stress the experience they are looking to deliver:

“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.”

DraftKings has proven time and again how competitive it can be and just how quickly it can corner the market. This of course will be something that they are looking to do again in Illinois.

 

Looking To Make The Most of Registration

The deadline for remote registration is now September 19, and that gives DraftKings a big window to bring in customers. The DraftKings mobile app offers a risk free $1000 bet for new players, which is sure to bring a great number of players in. With the NFL season kicking off on September 10, DraftKings has a great opportunity to ramp up registrations ahead of kick off.

While we have yet to see what rival FanDuel will do here in Illinois, one thing is for sure: DraftKings is once again the first to the market and that has put them in the best position for success in the state.

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