Earlier this year, the passing of an ordinance in the Windy City allowing Chicago sports betting set plans into motion.
Following the recent announcement, FanDuel and the United Center have teamed up to introduce a retail sportsbook within the arena. Similarly, in 2020, DraftKings partnered with Wrigley Field for a similar collaboration.
Currently, these are the only two sporting facilities in Chicago that have definite plans to open financial sportsbooks. While they will likely be the first to open, they won’t be the only ones in the future.
Here is an overview of our understanding of the Chicago casinos, including their anticipated opening dates. Let’s dive into the details.
Starting date for DraftKings Wrigley Casino: 2025
Construction has begun on the proposed DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field. The Chicago Cubs have announced that the facility is scheduled to open in the spring of 2025.
Opening Day has been cancelled, but construction of a profitable sports book facility at Wrigley Field is currently underway. #WrigleyField #sportsbook
Paul Sullivan tweeted on March 2, 2022:
Recently, Crane Kenney, the president of business operations for the Cubs, stated:
We are the most vigilant guardians of Wrigley Field, and we are deeply passionate about its preservation. As one of baseball’s iconic stadiums, the sportsbook will align perfectly with our existing efforts.
And so on:
We are not focused on the growth of sports betting. To us, it is simply another option for those who enjoy it. Not everyone is interested in betting on sports, and that is perfectly fine. Even if you are not a sports bettor, I believe the venue will still be a fantastic place.
The sportsbook will be situated at the intersection of Addison and Sheffield, close to the Addison red line ‘L’ stop. Spanning 22,350 square feet, it will feature a restaurant and bar. The design includes a triangular addition with a roof deck at the southeast corner of the stadium.
A few months ago, when Chicago lifted its gambling ban, DraftKings and the Cubs successfully navigated a major regulatory hurdle. However, the approval of the plans by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), known for its lack of agility, is still needed.
Starting meeting for FanDuel United Center Sportsbook: fall?
We do not have details on the specifics of the FanDuel United Center Sportsbook’s plan. However, sources suggest that there is hope the service will be up and running in time for the upcoming basketball and hockey season.
Wrigley/DraftKings is planning to launch in the fall of 2022, pending approval from the IGB. It is crucial to emphasize that sports betting companies have often miscalculated the time it takes for acceptance processes to be completed.
The Michael Jordan statue stands adjacent to the United Center, near the proposed two-story casino.
When the agreement was disclosed, FanDuel Group’s CEO, Amy Howe, stated:
The design of our casino club at the United Center captures the passion and dedication of Chicago’s most ardent sports fans. We are excited to transform this betting venue into the premier spot for Chicago sports enthusiasts to fully enjoy the FanDuel experience. With a proven track record of creating exceptional retail locations for fans, our team is committed to delivering an unparalleled experience.
status of various stadium sportsbooks in Chicago
Wintrust Arena and Guaranteed Rate Field, the home venues of the White Sox and Sky teams, are the top two spots where sports betting is likely to be offered.
It seems unlikely that the Bears tried to set up a sportsbook at their current location, as they are in the process of moving the team from Soldier Field to Arlington Heights.
After Illinois passed HB 3136 last fall, The Sky successfully applied for a Wintrust financial sports betting registration. Initially, Wintrust was not included in the Sports Wagering Act.
The White Sox have chosen not to comment on the situation, while the Bulls and White Sox are both owned by Jerry Reinsdorf. FanDuel is now a major partner at Guaranteed Rate Field, but it remains unclear what actions the White Sox will take.
Sky pushed to be part of the legislation and will likely introduce sports betting in the future. The only uncertainty is the timing and potential partners.
