ESPN is teaming up with DraftKings in a landmark sports betting agreement that will make the company the exclusive Official Sportsbook and Odds Provider of ESPN beginning December 1, 2025. This follows the mutually agreed upon ending of the network’s partnership with PENN Entertainment announced earlier today.
The multi-year deal unites two of the most recognizable names in sports and entertainment, positioning DraftKings at the center of ESPN’s rapidly expanding sports betting strategy while giving ESPN a trusted partner with established digital reach and consumer loyalty.
“Our betting approach has focused on offering an integrated experience within our products,” said Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of 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.”
Under the agreement, DraftKings products will be exclusively integrated across the network’s platforms. This includes the ESPN app, website, and direct-to-consumer offerings. A full rollout is expected in 2026. Featuring access to DraftKings’ sportsbook, daily fantasy games, and its Pick6 product at launch.
With DraftKings now in the fold, ESPN plans to lean into its strength as a content and storytelling brand. While expanding its direct relationship with consumers through ESPN Unlimited, its new DTC streaming product.
As part of the partnership, DraftKings will power the betting tab within the ESPN app. Moreover, it will offer its customers exclusive promotions tied to ESPN Unlimited. Both companies also plan to use the partnership to promote responsible gaming, dedicating major digital and on-air assets to educational campaigns and awareness initiatives.
“ESPN’s unmatched visibility across the world of sports makes 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.”
DraftKings currently operates in 28 states, plus Washington D.C. and Ontario, Canada. Serving more than 10 million customers across its platforms. The agreement further cements its position as one of the industry’s most dominant players at a time when sports betting continues to evolve into a mainstream component of the viewing experience.
In addition, ESPN BET will transition from an active sportsbook brand into a betting content brand supported by DraftKings integrations. That includes ESPN BET Live, which airs weekdays at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, as well as dedicated social and digital channels that will highlight odds, analysis, and betting insights.
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