Remember when ESPN was exiting the online sports-betting business an hour ago? Not anymore.
ESPN has now announced its new betting deal with DraftKings, effective Dec. 1, 2025.
“DraftKings entertainment products will be exclusively integrated across ESPN’s ecosystem with a full rollout expected in 2026,” the companies stated on Thursday. “Fans will be able to enjoy betting features and access to offerings including DraftKings’ sportsbook, daily fantasy, and DraftKings Pick6 at launch.”
“Our betting approach has focused on offering an integrated experience within our products,” said Jimmy Pitaro, chairman, ESPN. “Working with DraftKings, a leader in the space, will allow us to build upon that foundation, continue to super-serve passionate sports fans and grow our ESPN direct-to-consumer business. We are excited about this new collaboration with DraftKings.”
“ESPN’s unmatched visibility across the world of sports make this collaboration a natural fit,” said Jason Robins, CEO and co-founder of DraftKings. “As an innovative leader in digital sports entertainment, DraftKings is uniquely positioned to integrate our technology and products with ESPN’s iconic brand and storytelling power. Together, we’re delivering a seamless, engaging, and responsible experience that elevates how fans connect with live sports.”
ESPN BET will shift to a sports betting content brand with DraftKings Sportsbook integrations, the companies said, anchored by ESPN’s betting show, ESPN BET Live, which currently airs weekdays at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, and dedicated social and digital channels.
More to come.