DraftKings to Add Horse Race Wagering Platform

DraftKings is one of the few U.S. online gambling operators to have their hands in pretty much every online wagering market. That includes having the world's premier Daily Fantasy Sports platform to go along with a very nice online casino and sportsbook combination. Now, online gamblers who use DraftKings will be able to wager on horse races from all over the world.

The DraftKings horse race wagering platform is called DK Horse. The platform was developed in partnership with Churchill Downs Incorporated, one of the premier promoters of horse racing in the U.S.

In a press release, CDI CEO spoke on the partnership's desire to build the best horse racing platform in the world. He stated:

“Together with Churchill Downs Incorporated, an industry leader with a deep-rooted history in horse racing, we will deliver an innovative, mobile customer experience. Our goal is to provide our customers with best-in-class sports and gaming products, and we expect DK Horse to provide a fun and new way to engage with renowned races like the upcoming Run for the Roses.”

Just in Time for the Kentucky Derby

In an online gambling marketplace where timing is everything, it's no small thing that DraftKings and CDI have been able to get this platform released in time for the Kentucky Derby. With the app already launched in twelve (12) states, Kentucky Derby wagering is expected to serve as a "coming out party" for the website/app. The numbers: Leadership is expecting over $200 million in handle on just the Derby. With a least a dozen major stakes races being run on the same weekend, the companies are looking to make an immediate impact on the industry.

The Kentucky Derby will be run on the first Saturday in May, May 6, 2023. The big co-feature for the weekend will be the Kentucky Oaks (fillies) to be run on May 5.

Here are some key details related to the website/app:

• DraftKings will not be allowed to c-mingle funds from their online casino/sportsbook accounts. The DK horse platform is being run independently
  
• Customers will be able to stream live racing
  
• Handicapping tools and a "How to Bet Horse" guide will be made available
  
• New customers will be eligible to receive a $50 bonus after placing $50 of bets
  

With the addition of DK Horse, DraftKings will now be operating on par with Fanduel and BetMGM in an online gambling market that keeps growing.

Kentucky Passes Sports Betting Bill

Recently, the Kentucky House of Representatives passed important sports betting legislation. Thanks to the efforts of Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer, the Senate also passed HB 551 by a vote of 25-12. Twenty-three (23) votes were needed to pass the bill.

On March 31, 2023, Gov. Andy Beshear signed the bill into law in a ceremony at the capitol. In the process, Kentucky became the first state to pass sports betting legislation in 2023. To date, 37 states have passed similar legislation with a least two other states on track to follow suit this year.