DraftKings launches horse racing in six more states before Kentucky Derby

DraftKings has brought DraftKings Racing to six additional states by launching its horse betting product in Florida, Louisiana, Montana, New Hampshire, Ohio, and Oregon ahead of the Kentucky Derby on May 2.

DraftKings Racing, previously known as DK Horse, first launched in Delaware, Rhode Island, and New Mexico in March.

The company has integrated the horse racing product into the DraftKings Sportsbook app rather than continuing with a standalone platform. Customers can access pari-mutuel wagering on live racing events, including the Kentucky Derby.

“DraftKings is committed to delivering the best fan experience across sports, and we’re proud to continue elevating that experience for horse racing with DraftKings Racing,” Johnny Avello, Director of Race and Sports Operations. “DraftKings Racing is designed for speed and simplicity, offering a seamless and powerful way to engage with the sport’s biggest moments.

“By integrating horse racing directly into the DraftKings Sportsbook app, customers can wager across sports in one place with a shared wallet – creating a more connected and streamlined experience,” Avello added.

DraftKings said more states are expected to go live before the end of the year.

DraftKings advances “Super App” plans

The rollout follows DraftKings’ March announcement that it planned to release a “super app” designed to house most of its products in one platform. The app will include sportsbook, online casino, lottery, prediction markets, and horse racing offerings.

The combined platform is intended to increase cross-promotion and interaction across its products. The company projected the app could generate $55 billion to $80 billion by 2030 after reporting more than $6 billion in revenue last year, up 27% year over year.

$1 million Derby contest

Ahead of the 152nd Kentucky Derby, DraftKings has introduced its King of the Track promotion for users of DraftKings Racing and DK Horse.

The promotion allows customers to claim a share of a $1 million prize pool by opting in and correctly placing a qualifying wager on the horse they believe will win the Kentucky Derby.

Unlike many sportsbook promotions that issue bonus bets, DraftKings said winning customers will receive their share in cash.

Different rules by state

Although DraftKings Racing is available through the DraftKings Sportsbook app, the product operates under a different regulatory framework than the company’s sportsbook business.

That difference affects availability by jurisdiction. Rhode Island, for example, offers racing options even though full-fledged sports betting is not available.

Customers in states where both DraftKings Racing and sportsbook products are live can place wagers using unified accounts and shared wallets.