The Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG) has officially announced the launch of FanDuel's sports betting app and website as the exclusive provider of regulated sports betting in the District of Columbia. This move comes as part of FanDuel's takeover of GambetDC, marking a significant development in the district's gambling landscape.
The brand's entry into the D.C. market follows approval by the OLG of FanDuel as a subcontractor of Intralot, the Greek gaming solutions supplier that previously powered GambetDC. User criticism over GambetDC’s complexity and poor performance prompted the OLG to select FanDuel as its exclusive operator.
In preparation for the transition, GambetDC ceased accepting wagers on its mobile app and website on April 15. Users are advised to withdraw their funds by October 15, 2024. The transition will extend to retail locations through a phased approach by the end of 2024.
“With FanDuel’s launch, D.C. residents and visitors will have access to a best-in-class sports wagering platform. FanDuel’s entry into our market brings not only a reliable, customer-friendly sports wagering experience to the nation’s capital, but it also includes guaranteed revenue that will be used to fund vital city programs,” said Frank Suarez, Executive Director of OLG.
Residents and visitors of Washington, D.C. are now able to access the FanDuel app within the district's geographic boundaries, with the exception of specific areas where gambling is prohibited, such as federal lands and designated Class A facilities.
FanDuel will replace GambetDC's retail betting terminals across the district and operate under its closed market, restricting the use of non-exclusive sportsbooks outside a two-block radius of the district’s professional sports facilities.
FanDuel's success in neighboring markets bodes well for its prospects in Washington, D.C., as the operator continues to drive profits, generating substantial annual revenue in Maryland and Virginia with significant market shares.