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You can bet using the Draftkings sportsbook app from Illinois, however, there are other fine sports betting websites serving the state where one can register directly online. Currently, BetUS (now celebrating 25 years in business) is available to those living in Illinois. BetUS offers a generous welcome bonus (max $2500) and does offer wagering in-state colleges. Note: Individuals MUST physically register with Draftkings at a designated state casino.
Limits on Prop Bet Options
We found out heading into Super Bowl LV that sports betting in Illinois has its limitations besides the inability to place bets on the red hot Fighting Illini basketball team. State regulators prohibited betting on a number of entertainment props such as the National Anthem.
BetUS Allows Wagering on In-State Schools
Unlike DraftKings, BetUS does permit betting on Northwestern, the Fighting Illini and the Ramblers as well as all other in-state universities.
Draftkings to Set Up Shop at Wrigley Field?
Sports betting is anticipated at stadiums and ball parks in Illinois. A Draftkings deal with the Chicago Cubs, announced September 3, 2020, has provided the company with the golden key to operate inside Wrigley Field.
Under Illinois’ gambling law, sports teams can run betting businesses, including via mobile devices, within five blocks of their stadium for a $10 million licensing fee.
Draftkings recently brought on board NBA great Michael Jordan in an advisory role.
The multiyear partnership makes the Cubs the first Major League Baseball franchise to commit to opening a retail sportsbook on their stadium premises.
"An increasing number of sports fans want to integrate sports betting into their game experience, and we're excited to be one of the first to engage in developing a retail sportsbook at a professional sports venue," Crane Kenney, president of business operations for the Cubs, said in a release announcing the deal.
Draftkings Remote Registration
Though during Covid, residents were permitted to open betting accounts online, this is no longer the case with in-state regulated sites like DraftKings. Sites like BetUS still allow for remote registration right from your sofa.
Draftkings Demand High in Illinois
Through its own monitoring of traffic, Gambling911.com has determined there are quite a few search inquiries per day related to betting on the Draftkings app from the state of Illinois.
The Draftkings brand is already well recognized in the state as a result of its Daily Fantasy Sports product and gorilla advertising campaign.
Draftkings had initially been declined the opportunity to operate from Illinois for a two-year span. The company cried foul and launched ad campaigns statewide expressing their displeasure.
Draftkings will be unable to take bets on Illinois school teams such as the Illini and Wildcats. Sites like BetUS will continue to do so.
- Aaron Goldstein, Gambling911.com
