DraftKings becomes the first online betting company in New Jersey

DraftKings has become the first betting operators to offer legalised online sports betting facility in New Jersey.

There was a spirited race among the betting companies to become the historic first. DraftKings emerged the first as it obtained a waiver from New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement to do a soft launch on Wednesday at 6 pm EST, The authorities set a condition that it must be initially done on an invite-only basis.

As per the rules and regulations, there are restrictions on the hours of operation and the number of customers allowed. Customers of DraftKings in New Jersey can now download the iOS or Android app and wait for an invitation before they can bet.

DraftKings’ staff held a launch party at their Boston headquarters, while CEO Jason Robbins celebrated their market entry via Twitter.

DraftKings is partnered with Resorts Atlantic City casino, but the pair is yet to open the sportsbook in the property. Four of Atlantic City’s nine casinos are now offering over-the-counter sports betting after Bally’s and Harrah’s this week joined the Borgata and Ocean Resorts.

DraftKings’ mobile platform is provided by Kambi, under the terms of a deal signed just six weeks ago. The app has the company’s crowned-D logo and black and green colour scheme, and offers the in-play and cash out features that have dominated European mobile betting over the last decade. DraftKings Sportsbook is aimed at mass market so features a clean, uncluttered home screen and simplified terms such as ‘Who will win?’ rather than “moneylines.”

A delighted Kambi CEO Kristian Nylen said in a statement: “Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Kambi, creating history with our partner DraftKings by processing the first online wager outside of Nevada following the repeal of PASPA.”

“To be the first, and so far and only, sports betting supplier to receive a Transactional Waiver to operate online in New Jersey only strengthens our position as the secure and quality choice for operators seeking a sportsbook partner.”