Draftkings launches its sportsbook in Illinois

DraftKings has gone live in Illinois after launching its sportsbook in the state, available via both app and retail.

Made possible through its partnership with Casino Queen, which re-branded its East St. Louis casino as DraftKings, the betting operator ensured it was able to comply with the state requirement for in-person registration for the use of online sports betting facilities. 

While the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) received the operator’s proposal several weeks ago, processing delays have slowed the association’s usual two week turnaround.

But now, customers can download the sportsbook app or visit DraftKings at the East St. Louis site, making it the fourth retail sportsbook and second digital platform to take bets in Illinois. 

Jason Robins, DraftKings co-founder, chairman and CEO, said: “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.”

Sports betting has been legal in Illinois since June 2019, with online platforms recently emerging thanks to BetRivers launching the state’s first online sportsbook in June this year. 

Hayley Grammer

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