ESPN Ends Partnership with PENN Entertainment
ESPN has mutually terminated its exclusive U.S. online sports-betting agreement with PENN Entertainment. This decision marks the end of the ESPN BET sportsbook, which will officially sunset on December 1, 2025.
New Collaboration with DraftKings Announced
Shortly after ending the PENN deal, ESPN announced a new multiyear agreement to partner with DraftKings as its Official Sportsbook and Odds Provider. ESPN BET will transition into a sports-betting content brand integrated with DraftKings Sportsbook features across ESPN’s platforms, with a full rollout planned for 2026.
“Our betting approach has focused on offering an integrated experience within our products. 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 Chairman Jimmy Pitaro
DraftKings’ Role in ESPN’s Ecosystem
- DraftKings will operate the betting tab inside the ESPN app.
- Users will access DraftKings’ sportsbook, daily fantasy games, and Pick6 offerings.
- ESPN customers will receive exclusive promotions connected to ESPN Unlimited, ESPN's new direct-to-consumer product.
Summary
This new partnership strengthens ESPN’s sports-betting presence by integrating DraftKings’ services, aiming to enhance fan engagement and grow ESPN’s direct consumer business.