Flutter Entertainment-owned FanDuel Group has announced plans to open a new retail sportsbook at the United Center, the home of National Basketball Association team the Chicago Bulls and National Hockey League franchise the Chicago Blackhawks.
Pending necessary approvals, the sportsbook facility will be set over two floors and allow fans at the venue to place a wide range of bets across a host of sports events and contests.
The addition of the sportsbook would mark an expansion of the partnerships that FanDuel already has in place with both the Bulls and Blackhawks. These existing deals include media, VIP fan experience and advertising assets.
While awaiting regulatory approval from the Illinois Gaming Board, the United Center and FanDuel will build a non-wagering space adjacent to the main atrium. This FanDuel-branded facility will allow fans to watch live sports action while attending events at the arena.
“As an industry leader in sports betting with a large and loyal existing customer base, FanDuel has a proven track record of innovation and excellence making them the perfect partner in developing the sportsbook at the United Center,” United Center Joint executive vice president and chief executive Howard Pizer said.
“It is designed to give sports fans a brand new, fully immersive sportsbook lounge experience unlike any other.”
FanDuel chief executive Amy Howe added: “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.
“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.”
Last month, it was revealed that sports betting adjusted gross revenue reached an all-time high of $79.3m in November in Illinois, though the state fell short of its record monthly handle.
Players wagered $779.8m on sports during November, up 72.9% from $451.0m in the same month in 2020, but 7.2% lower than the record $840.4m bet by players in October of 2021.