DraftKings Shuts Down Daily Fantasy Sports Operations in the UK
DraftKings has shut down its daily fantasy sports (DFS) in the UK. The decision is effective immediately and part of the company’s overall business optimization and focus on higher margin markets. UK players can no longer enter new DFS contests.
End of an Era for DraftKings in Europe
DraftKings has been in the UK since 2016 offering fantasy sports contests. As part of a bigger business shift the company has decided to exit the European market entirely.
The last DFS contests were accepted until 4:30am GMT on October 3, 2024 and players have until June 3, 2025 to withdraw any remaining balance.
This is part of DraftKings’ focus on higher growth areas of the business, particularly in the US.
The company has established itself as one of the big players in the US sports betting space where it competes with FanDuel.
Challenges in Replicating US Success in Europe
DraftKings has a big chunk of the US sports betting market – 29% of the online betting and gaming space – but has struggled to replicate that in Europe. Despite having partnerships like Liverpool FC, the platform never really gained traction in the UK market.
DraftKings had previously launched DFS in several European countries including Malta, Germany, Ireland and Austria.
But its attempts to replicate the American fantasy sports model in Europe didn’t work out. With the UK exit DraftKings has now fully exited the European market.
Focus on US Market Growth
As DraftKings turns its attention back to its core US market its business is growing. The company now offers mobile betting in 25 US jurisdictions including its recent entry into Washington D.C.
The intense competition with FanDuel in the US market has forced DraftKings to focus its resources and efforts domestically where it sees higher margins and growth opportunities.
While it makes sense for DraftKings to focus on the US market it’s a bitter pill to swallow for many UK customers who have been with the platform for years.