DraftKings CEO Jason Robins sees 2025 as breakout year for iGaming expansion

Jason Robins, CEO of DraftKings, projected a major growth year for the iGaming industry in 2025, citing increased legislative momentum and the potential for transformative market expansion. Speaking at the fourth annual Craig-Hallum Online Gaming Conference, Robins outlined his optimism for online sports betting and casino legislation while addressing the challenges and competition DraftKings has faced since its inception.

Robins described 2025 as a year poised for significant advancements in iGaming legislation. “Every sign is pointing to that,” he said. “I think this year coming up, 2025, we’re going to get some real momentum, potentially even get some iGaming bills over the hump, which should be great.”  

He attributed the slower pace of legislative progress in 2024 to the complexities of an election year, noting that such political climates often stall gaming-related bills.  

Robins reflected on DraftKings' early challenges as a U.S.-based operator without the backing of a global gambling partner, unlike its competitors FanDuel and BetMGM. “Initially, we were behind when it came to product and technology,” he admitted. However, the acquisition of SBTech and sustained investment in technology allowed the company to close gaps and, in some areas, surpass its rivals.  

“Our product and technology capabilities have become a premier place in the market,” Robins said. He also noted that being U.S.-based ultimately helped establish a strong foothold in the domestic market.  
 
DraftKings and FanDuel have emerged as market leaders, with Robins highlighting their closely matched metrics. He acknowledged FanDuel’s edge in NBA betting, a high-hold segment, while positioning DraftKings as strong in college sports, which typically generate lower holds.  

“If you look at it from a handle share standpoint, we’re actually neck and neck, even a little ahead of them,” Robins said. “Player-wise, we’re about even.”  

Despite growing competition, Robins welcomed new entrants, emphasizing their role in fostering innovation. “It keeps the team focused on winning with the customer and keeps that edge,” he said.  
  
Robins dismissed comparisons suggesting U.S. sports betting could not achieve the same cultural integration as in the U.K., citing Americans’ higher entertainment spending. “The U.S. leads in almost every single entertainment spend per capita category,” he said.  

He predicted that the U.S. would eventually become the world’s largest regulated sports betting market. “We always viewed the U.K. as at least the floor,” Robins explained. “I think the U.S. will be the largest in the world amongst regulated markets by any measure.”  

Looking ahead, Robins believes 2025 will be important for DraftKings and the broader industry, with the potential for significant legislative advancements. He also noted that company's strategic focus on technology and innovation has positioned it to capitalize on the evolving online gaming landscape.