FanDuel Breaks New Ground with Sportsbook Opening at D.C. United Audi Field

• A boost for US soccer, FanDuel’s deal with D.C. United at Audi Field is a welcome first
• The Buzzard Point Sportsbook will have both self-service terminals and betting windows
• A first-class overall entertainment facility, open to bettors and patrons year-round

A big boost for US soccer transpired as it was announced this week that D.C. United and FanDuel Group plan to debut a world-class FanDuel Sportsbook retail experience in one of the current club areas in Audi Field in 2021, pending licensing and regulatory approvals from the DC Lottery.

The multiyear sports betting partnership, the terms of which were not disclosed are FanDuel’s first with a Major League Soccer team. It follows recent announcements by FanDuel, and other sportsbooks made with NFL teams to place sportsbooks within stadium confines. The Buzzard Point sportsbook, pending licensing and regulatory approval from the D.C. Lottery, will feature several betting windows and self-service terminals available year-round, according to a press release.

As of Oct. 23, when the last D.C. Lottery updated the status of sports wagering license applications, no application for the FanDuel sportsbook had been submitted.

Background on FanDuel Deal

With twelve retail sportsbooks in nine US states, FanDuel also provides mobile sports wagering currently available in seven states. The company also has a strong reputation in the fantasy sports sector.

The MLS club, D.C. United began their partnership in February with Caesars Entertainment, paving the way for a Caesars sportsbook at Audi Field, but that will not immediately happen, according to a D.C. United spokesperson. The Caesars logo was part of D.C. United jersey over the past season.

The FanDuel sportsbook at Audi Field would be the second Class-A venue in the District, after William Hill’s sportsbook at Capital One Arena. That facility is set to open next year. Caesars agreed to acquire William Hill in September for $3.7 billion in a deal that is expected to be completed in the second half of 2021.

Sam Porter, Chief Strategy Officer of D.C. United, said:

D.C. United is looking forward to the opportunity of working with a first-rate operator in this new and exciting space. The FanDuel Sportsbook is best-in-class and we believe their expertise, technology, and product will provide our fans, guests at Audi Field, and the Buzzard Point neighborhood a full-slate of entertainment options.

The FanDuel logo, emblem, and presence continue its ascension into sports stadiums across the US, most noticeable during our current NFL season. This most recent announcement for Audi Field in D.C. could begin their lead into a new sports sector.

Sam Porter, Chief Strategy Officer of D.C. United, said:

As we continue to expand our nationwide footprint, joining forces with one of the MLS’ most iconic clubs allow us to bring America’s #1 Sportsbook to the nation’s capital. We’re partnering with D.C. United to elevate the fan experience at Audi Field and bring the DMV area an in-person sports gaming experience other parts of the US have come to know and love from FanDuel.