DraftKings partners with Chicago Cubs, plans sportsbook at Wrigley Field stadium

DraftKings announced Thursday that it has become the Official Sports Betting and Daily Fantasy Partner of The Chicago Cubs. The multi-year deal includes a plan to pursue a first-of-its-kind sportsbook at the iconic Wrigley Field stadium, with online access available in the surrounding Wrigleyville area.

The planned DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field will include "a best in class entertainment experience for sports fans in Illinois." Although sports betting is now legal in Illinois, the development of a retail sportsbook would require approval by the City of Chicago.

“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,” said Matt Kalish, Co-founder and President, DraftKings North America. “As two organizations 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.”

“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, 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 seven states, including a location in Illinois at DraftKings at Casino Queen in East St. Louis. Per Governor J.B. Pritzker’s Executive Order 2020-41, online and mobile sportsbook registration is currently available statewide through September 19.