DraftKings secures tribal market-access deal in Connecticut
Foxwoods partnership includes launching DraftKings DFS product in the state later in December
DraftKings has secured a multi-channel market-access deal with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation in Connecticut, should the state pass legislation to legalize sports betting.
The state’s tribes, which also include the Mohegan Indians, have exclusivity to operate casino games in the state and are arguing that sports betting falls under that remit.
As part of the deal, DraftKings will also become the official DFS partner of the tribe’s Foxwoods Resort Casino.
Foxwoods will launch DFS in the state on December 13 with DraftKings operating its mobile product.
The two parties expect to launch sports betting in Connecticut pending final legislation, as the state is projected to generate $175m in new igaming and betting revenue over five years.
“The national expansion of regulated sports betting is among our top strategic priorities,” DraftKings president Matt Kalish said.
“DraftKings today is live with mobile sports betting in 10 states, more than any other operator in the US, and teaming up with the tribe will allow us to extend our reach even further,” he added.
Rodney Butler, chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, said: “Partnering with DraftKings, the most prominent name in sports betting, reinforces the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe’s position as a leader in the gaming and entertainment industry.”
On Foxwoods’ expansion into DFS, Foxwoods interim CEO Jason Guyot said: “Offering daily fantasy sports allows us to bring a new type of compelling and interactive online experience to our passionate sport fans.
“By combining Foxwoods’ 29-year gaming legacy with DraftKings’ deep digital expertise, we’re well positioned to continue leading gaming advancements in the region and beyond,” he added.
DraftKings has a retail presence in neighboring New York State at del Lago Resort Casino.