Sports News
| Published On Nov 9, 2025 1:59 am CET | By iGaming Team

ESPN and DraftKings Form New Long Term Sports Betting Partnership

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ESPN and DraftKings have agreed to a multiyear partnership that will name DraftKings the exclusive Official Sportsbook and Odds Provider of ESPN starting December 1, 2025. The announcement came shortly after ESPN and PENN Entertainment confirmed the end of their previous betting agreement.


Good to Know

  • DraftKings will be integrated directly into ESPN apps and platforms
  • ESPN Bet will shift into a content-forward betting brand
  • PENN will relaunch its US sportsbook as theScore Bet

How the Shift from PENN Occurred

ESPN and PENN issued a joint statement confirming that their 2023 agreement did not reach required performance milestones. As a result, both sides agreed to step away from the partnership.

PENN will transition its US-facing betting platform to theScore Bet on December 1. The ESPN Bet brand will remain but will change roles, becoming a sports betting content hub rather than a transactional sportsbook.

DraftKings Integration Begins in Late 2025

Beginning December 2025, DraftKings products will start appearing throughout the ESPN ecosystem. A full rollout will continue into 2026. Sports fans using ESPN digital platforms will gain access to:

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  • DraftKings Sportsbook
  • DraftKings daily fantasy contests
  • DraftKings Pick6

DraftKings will also power the betting tab within the ESPN app, providing real-time lines, suggested plays, and market insights.

The operator currently runs wagering in 28 US states, Washington D.C., and Ontario.

Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN, said:

“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.”

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ESPN Bet Becomes Content-Driven

ESPN Bet will now function as a media brand tied to betting conversation rather than placing bets. ESPN Bet Live, which airs weekdays at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, will remain a flagship program. Additional cross-platform segments will expand through digital and social channels.

The programming shift aligns betting data more closely with live sports coverage and studio discussions.

Jason Robins, CEO and Co-Founder of DraftKings, said:

“ESPN has unmatched visibility across the world of sports. As an innovative leader in digital sports entertainment, DraftKings is uniquely positioned to integrate our technology and products with the ESPN brand and storytelling power. Together, we are delivering a seamless, engaging, and responsible experience that elevates how fans connect with live sports.”

Responsible Gaming Focus

DraftKings and ESPN will collaborate on responsible gaming initiatives, including education campaigns and product-based tools that guide users on safe betting practices.


FAQ

When will DraftKings integrations appear inside ESPN apps?

Initial rollout begins in December 2025, expanding fully in 2026.

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What happens to ESPN Bet?

It becomes a sports betting content brand with DraftKings powering the odds.

What sportsbook will PENN operate moving forward?

PENN will shift to theScore Bet in the US.

Will DraftKings odds appear on ESPN broadcasts?

Yes, through on-screen integrations and app-based companion features.

Does this partnership include responsible gaming programs?

Yes, both companies will support education and awareness efforts.