DraftKings pushes UK launch back to 2016

y Fantasy Sports (DFS) operator DraftKings has delayed its planned UK launch until early 2016.

Having received its UK Gambling Commission licence in August, DraftKings initial aim to launch in October 2015 was pushed back to December.

DraftKings spokesperson Pippa Hancock confirmed to Bloomberg Business that the launch of the operator's UK-facing site has now been postponed until "early next year".

Speaking in August, DraftKings CEO Jason Robins said: "Our expansion into the United Kingdom marks a milestone moment in the growth of DraftKings as we introduce our world class product to new audiences.

"We will add new sports and games to our burgeoning roster of offerings and further connect fans to their favourite teams and players."

DraftKings and its main rival FanDuel have been under legal pressure in the USA in recent weeks.

Both were granted a stay of injunction by a New York appellate court last week against the attorney general's ruling that DFS constitutes a game of chance under state law, making it illegal in the Empire State.

California held a hearing regarding DFS on Wednesday, in order to frame the state legislature's approach to the industry in the future.