MLB’s the Chicago Cubs has announced a multi-year deal with fantasy and sports betting operator DraftKings Inc in which both entities will pursue a “first-of-its-kind” sportsbook to be featured in the Cubs’ iconic Wrigley Field home.
The planned DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field, which expects to include a “best-in-class” entertainment experience for sports fans in Illinois, will also have online access available in the surrounding Wrigleyville area.
Matt Kalish, Co-founder and President, DraftKings North America, commented: “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.
“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 organisation steeped in tradition, and making our presence felt in and around Wrigleyville.”
While sports betting is now legal in Illinois, the development of a retail sportsbook would require approval by the City of Chicago.
In addition to the sportsbook plans DraftKings Inc has also been appointed as the Official Sports Betting and Daily Fantasy Partner of MLB franchise throughout the duration of the partnership.
Crane Kenney, Chicago Cubs’ President of Business Operations, stated: “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.
“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.”
The news of the partnerships follows on from the firm announcing that NBA legend Michael Jordan has taken an equity stake in DraftKings, with the former Chicago Bulls player also named as a special advisor for the company’s board.
