The deal will see DraftKings establish a physical sportsbook located in the del Lago Resort.
However, perhaps even more lucrative is the fact that should legislation change in New York to permit sports wagers, DraftKings and del Lago will partner up to enter the online and mobile sports wagering market in the state.
Jason Robins, CEO and co-founder of DraftKings, said: “New York is one of the largest revenue opportunities for future sports wagering operators and we are thrilled to partner with del Lago Resort & Casino to offer sports fans a unique and novel sports betting experience, both at a physical sportsbook and on mobile when permitted.”
New York is yet to legalise sports wagers, but the potential market is said to be the second largest in the US behind California, according to a recent American Gaming Association (AGA) study.
DraftKings has been preparing for this opportunity for a long time, having begun the process of establishing a sportsbook over a year ago after New Jersey legally challenged the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act.
Brent Stevens, co-chairman of del Lago and CEO of Peninsula Pacific, said: “Our partnership with DraftKings combines one of the most recognisable brands in sports with the top resort and casino brand in New York and represents an incredibly important moment for gaming in the Upstate region.”
DraftKings is already established in New Jersey, following a similar agreement with Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City to be its licensing partner for online sports betting in the state.
DraftKings and rival FanDuel, which just opened its first sportsbook at the Meadowlands Racetrack in New Jersey, are establishing themselves in strong positions to become the major US sportsbooks operators.
