As the new year rolls closer, 1 January will see Ohio fully launch sports betting to its citizens – with DraftKings announcing it will be a part of the day-one offering for anybody wanting to place wagers.
Though DraftKings’ sportsbook is still pending licensure and approvals, these are expected to be a formality for one of the country’s biggest sportsbook providers.
Matt Kalish, DraftKings Co-Founder and President of DraftKings North America, said of the launch: “We’re excited to ring in the New Year with the launch of our top-rated DraftKings Sportsbook app in Ohio.
“Ohioans are passionate sports fans with hometown pride, and we’re thrilled to offer them a variety of ways to have more skin in the game ahead of the 2023 College Football Playoff National Championship and the NFL playoffs.”
Ohio is the latest battleground for sportsbook operators in the US, as the fight to win market share in every new state hots up with each new opening. Massachusetts will be one of the next to launch the practice after the state passed legislation to legalise sports betting last year – with many speculating that it will arrive in time for the Super Bowl.
Amanda Blackford, Director of Operations and Problem Gambling Services, Ohio Casino Control Commission, said of the move: "In other states that preceded Ohio in legalising sports betting, we've seen higher interest and more struggles with problem gambling. We want people to have fun and be responsible."
