Boston, Massachusetts, headquartered DraftKings is to pursue plans to construct a “first-of-its-kind sportsbook” at the iconic Wrigley Field after entering a partnership with the Chicago Cubs.
Joining the franchise as its first ‘Official and Exclusive Sports Betting And Daily Fantasy Partner,’ the multi-year deal is also set to incorporate online sportsbook access available in the surrounding Wrigleyville area.
Although sports betting is now legal in Illinois, the development of a retail sportsbook would require approval by the City of Chicago. DraftKings says that the entity would “include a best in class entertainment experience for sports fans in Illinois”.
“DraftKings has been a great partner for a number of years and we are excited to expand this relationship as sports betting grows rapidly in Illinois,” said Crane Kenney, president of business operations at the Chicago Cubs.
“An increasing number of sports fans want to integrate sports betting into their game experience, and we’re excited to be one of the first to engage in developing a retail sportsbook at a professional sports venue.”
DraftKings currently operates retail sportsbooks in eight states, including a location in Illinois at DraftKings at Casino Queen in East St. Louis.
Yesterday, the company debuted its second retail sportsbook location in The Granite State, after introducing DraftKings Sportsbook at Manchester following its first entry, and New Hampshire’s debut retail location, at The Brook in August.
“This is truly a historic moment, as we are thrilled to align with the renowned Chicago Cubs franchise and iconic Wrigley Field to provide sports bettors in Chicago with a revolutionary sports betting experience,” explained Matt Kalish, co-founder and president of DraftKings North America.
“As two organisations that share a mutual passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence, we look forward to working in collaboration with the Cubs, an organization steeped in tradition, and making our presence felt in and around Wrigleyville.”
