DraftKings has entered into a new partnership with Wild Rose Entertainment, to offer sports betting at the three Iowa-based casinos operated by the firm.
Becoming the retail and mobile partner of Wild Rose to enable wagers on a wide array of sporting events, the agreement concerns Wild Rose Casino and Resorts located in Clinton, Emmetsburg and Jefferson.
Both parties stress that approval has been granted by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, after submitting applications and documentation to move forward with their partnership agreement to operate sportsbooks.
“DraftKings is thrilled to work with Wild Rose to bring our online sportsbook product to sports fans in Iowa,” commented Matt Kalish, chief revenue officer and co-founder of DraftKings.
“We look forward to fuelling fans’ passion and competitive spirit while building on the success we’ve seen in the other states we serve.”
Under the sports betting law enacted in May, each casino in Iowa is allowed, but not required, to apply for a sports wagering licence, as part of which casinos can have two mobile partners with two skins.
Iowa law also requires customers to physically go to the casino to register for mobile sports betting until January 1, 2021, after which patrons can sign up outside the property.
An important distinction in the state is that sportsbooks are not permitted to accept college sports in-game wagers involving game statistics and individuals who play for any Iowa college, including Drake University, Iowa State University, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa.
Tom Timmons, president and chief operating officer of Wild Rose, commented: “Sports betting is the most energising change in Iowa gaming since the slot machine.
“We couldn’t be more excited to be the first Iowa casino company to partner with DraftKings, which we view as the most recognisable name in sports gaming.
“With DraftKings’ track record in mobile betting, we can reach more fans and customers who love sports. We can’t wait to be up and running. Stay tuned for our next announcement.”
