DraftKings fantasy sports operator intends to conquer the UK market
Fantasy sports operator DraftKings launched its website in the U.K. market, said CEO of DraftKings Jason Robins.
“When you come to the UK market and offer millions in cash prizes, it is easier to attract the audience to use the platform – Robins said. – In the end, it’s just a new marketing channel, a new place in which we have to build the players’ base faster than our competitors.”Do not forget that such companies as FanDuel and Yahoo together with its partner Mondogoal have already had the UK licenses and concentrate their attention on soccer, but DraftKings plans to attract the attention of the players to their NFL, NBA, NHL and other sports alongside with soccer.
The company has long been preparing for this step, announced its plans in August. It previously received a gambling license, which allows them to organize gambling in Europe. Here fantasy sports are considered a part of gambling industry because of large cash prizes to the winners of the competition. Note that the US states Illinois, New York, Texas, Hawaii and others, have challenged the legality of daily fantasy sports, while they were declared gambling operations in Nevada and require licensing.
“Our expansion in the UK marks a new milestone in the growth of DraftKings. We present a world-class product for the British audience, – said the executive director Jason Robins. – We will add new sports and games and connect you with your favorite teams and players. “
DraftKings plans to enter the UK market with 11 sports including the NFL, NHL, NBA, Premier League, UEFA Champions League, Major League Soccer, UFC, golf, NASCAR, and eSports. Earlier DraftKings announced a partnership agreement with Barclays Premier League clubs Arsenal, Watford, and Liverpool.
The company will receive draftkings.co.uk domain. The operator will also open an office in London. The only thing that the British customers have complained about is the limited financial capabilities. So, the only way to deposit and withdraw funds at the moment is the payment system PayPal, and the use of credit cards is not provided.
After service will be launched in the UK, DraftKings plans to expand its presence in other regions, including Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America.
Sam Robbins does not consider entering the international market to be a special achievement. He believes that the big prize pools will help DraftKings to attract new customers and win a place on the market quickly. In addition, he spoke about the plans on how to develop cricket and rugby fantasy games, as these sports are particularly popular in the UK. Most likely, they will be launched this year too.
