FanDuel has announced on Monday that it plans to launch a sportsbook inside of the United Center in Chicago.
The arena houses both the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks.
The official groundbreaking will not occur until governmental approval takes place — most notably from the Illinois Gaming Board.
The plan is for a two-story book located adjacent to the United Center atrium that is clad with seats and screens.
In partnership with @FanDuel, we’re planning to open a state-of-the-art, two-story Sportsbook lounge here to bring the excitement of sports wagering inside the United Center!
For details, visit: https://t.co/YzX3kWvqtdpic.twitter.com/QRmnAt1ts7
— United Center (@UnitedCenter) January 31, 2022
Other teams across American sports that have already opened or have announced plans to open in-stadium sportsbooks include the Chicago Cubs, Washington Capitals, Washington Wizards, Arizona Cardinals, Washington Nationals and Pittsburgh Penguins.
The Chicago sportsbook would be accessible outside of game-days — and to those without tickets on game-days — though the specific parameters have yet to be announced.
There is no timetable as of Monday as to when the venture expects to be finished.
While the parties await regulatory approval, the two companies said they plan on building a FanDuel-branded area that allows fans to watch other live games while attending events at the United Center. Patrons would be unable to place bets at the location.
“Chicago sports fans are some of the most loyal and passionate in the world and plans for our sportsbook lounge inside the United Center reflect their excitement,” said Amy Howe, the CEO of FanDuel in a statement. “Our team has a track record of delivering incredible retail locations for fans, and we can’t wait to make this sportsbook lounge the premier destination for Chicago sports fans and a place where they can fully experience the FanDuel brand.”
