DraftKings Announces Maryland Online Sportsbook Plans

Following Maryland’s mandatory early access test period from Nov. 21-22, DraftKings Inc. announced it expects to launch its online sportsbook in the state on Nov. 23. The application is pending receipt of final regulatory approvals from Maryland sports betting regulators.

If everything goes according to plan, the DraftKings Sportsbook app will be fully live for eligible customers ahead of the NFL action on Thanksgiving Day. 

Matt Kalish, co-founder and president of DraftKings North America said:

“With an active sports season currently underway, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to launch our top-rated sportsbook app in Maryland. Our product delivers fans an exciting sports betting experience, and we would like to thank the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission, Governor Hogan and the General Assembly for bringing online sports wagering to
Maryland.”

DraftKings Sportsbook Maryland nears online launch

Maryland voters approved online sports betting in November 2020; two years later, it will finally go live. The state has been working through its process and is now allowing sports betting apps to launch.

Next week, DraftKings should be among as many as 10 sportsbooks to go live in the state. Leading sportsbook operators like Caesars and BetMGM have already initiated early account registration in the state.

With DraftKings, players can place various bets, including same-game parlays, player props, special odds boost selections, and more. However, only pre-registered users will get a guaranteed $200 bonus cash.

If DraftKings launches in Maryland before Thanksgiving, players could use their free bets on the NFL’s Turkey Day games, as well as bet on the World Cup.

Once its app receives regulatory approvals, DraftKings will offer eligible customers in Maryland the opportunity to place legal and regulated bets across collegiate sporting events and professional sports leagues, including the NHL, NBA, and much more.

Emphasis on responsible gaming

Cal Ripken, Jr., Special Advisor to the Board of Directors for DraftKings, said:

“As sports gaming continues to grow across the nation, it was important to me that if I entered this space I would partner with a company that placed an emphasis on responsible gaming. With that top of mind, I joined the team at DraftKings and I am thrilled that it will be leading the way here in Maryland. Now, sports fans in our state will have access to the DraftKings Sportsbook, a safe and regulated betting option and a respected corporate leader.”

The company says responsible gaming remains a key pillar of the DraftKings S.E.R.V.E.S. program. DraftKings continues to aim to protect its consumers through employee training, providing various resources and support of evidence-based research.