DraftKings Sportsbook unveiled a retail location near Chicago’s iconic Wrigley Field, debuting just in time for the frenzy of major college basketball tournaments leading up to the NCAA Tournament.
The opening of DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field offers Chicago bettors an additional venue to wager on March Madness odds, complementing the existing options at Rivers Casino in Des Plaines. This expansion of betting locations comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding the limitations on online wagering involving Illinois schools, which has sparked legislative debates in recent years.
In 2019, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker signed the Sports Wagering Act into law, legalizing online Illinois sports betting, but imposing restrictions on betting activities involving local schools. The ban on wagering for in-state college games has faced criticism, particularly during high-profile events like the NCAA tournament.
DraftKings Announces Retail Location on Social Media Account
DraftKings announced the commencement of retail wagers in Wrigley Field via a dedicated Instagram account for the iconic ballpark’s vicinity. On the bustling corner of Addison Street and Sheffield Avenue, DraftKings’ 22,000-square-foot venue opened its doors for betting, marking a significant milestone in the Chicago sports betting scene.
According to reports, DraftKings Sportsbook paid the full $10 million license fee to obtain the state agency’s license. These funds will be directed into the Rebuild Illinois Fund, earmarked for infrastructure projects across the state.
DraftKings’ journey to establish this premier sports betting destination at Wrigley Field began last summer with the opening of the two-story venue, initially focused on food and beverage services. However, before the sports facility betting license application could be submitted, the Chicago City Council had to navigate an ordinance to lift the “home rule” ban for sports betting in the city, a milestone achieved in December 2021.
The process leading to lifting the “home rule” ban was not without its challenges and controversies. Sports team owners, including Tom Ricketts of the Cubs, Rocky Wirtz of the Blackhawks, and Jerry Reinsdorf of the Bulls and White Sox, rallied to support the sports betting ordinance. However, Rush Street co-founder Neil Bluhm expressed opposition, citing concerns about potential impacts on downtown casino revenue.
Despite these hurdles, the passed ordinance implemented a 2% city tax on revenue from wagers placed at licensee locations, extending to a five-block radius where sports betting is permitted. This tax structure translates to a total tax rate of 19% on adjusted gross sports betting revenue for DraftKings’ Wrigley Field location, with contributions allocated to the state, Cook County, and the City of Chicago.
In conclusion, the opening of DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field marks a significant milestone in Illinois’ sports betting history. It offers fans a unique opportunity to engage with their favorite teams and games in a dynamic and interactive physical environment.
Related Pages: Best Sports Betting Apps | March Madness Betting Promos | World Series Odds | MLB Betting Promotions
Wagers on College Sports Permitted in Person
While legislative changes are still under review, the opening DraftKings’ latest retail location offers a viable alternative for sports bettors eager to participate in the excitement of college basketball tournaments. This development highlights the growing demand for expanded betting opportunities in Illinois and the ongoing evolution of the state’s sports betting landscape.
In addition to providing a convenient location for sports betting enthusiasts at the iconic Wrigley Field, the outlet is expected to contribute to the local economy and enhance the overall fan experience during sporting events. As college basketball fans gather to watch their favorite teams compete, the availability of nearby betting facilities adds a new dimension to the frenzy surrounding these games.
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