DraftKings to Close Wrigley Field Retail Sportsbook Due to High Taxes

DraftKings is closing its retail sportsbook at Wrigley Field, ending in-person sports betting there as of May 31. This decision comes amid increased wagering taxes in Illinois, impacting the profitability of its operations at the venue.

The company announced the closure, explaining that while the Wrigley Field location will continue to function as a sports bar, on-site betting will cease. DraftKings highlighted its commitment to maintaining online sports betting across Illinois.

The venue itself will remain open, but in-person sports betting will no longer be offered at the location.

Opened in March 2024, Wrigley Field’s sportsbook was unique as it was the only one tied to a sports venue in Illinois. Despite shutting down the sportsbook, DraftKings plans to keep the site running as a lively sports bar with various amenities.

DraftKings faced a city-imposed tax of 10.25% on sports wagering receipts in January, contributing to its decision to close this location. Additionally, state tax rates climbed to a maximum of 40% for larger platforms. These factors made sustaining a standalone retail sportsbook difficult.

The Chicago Cubs and DraftKings have been partners since 2020, and this relationship supports ongoing use of the Wrigley Field area as a DraftKings site. The bar will remain open, hosting visitors with its comprehensive sports-viewing setup.

Later this season, we expect to create a seamless flow between the bar and the ballpark concourse, making the space a great gameday option for Cubs ticketholders.

DraftKings remains a primary sports betting partner for the Cubs, ensuring mobile customers continue to have support and options. Customers with open bets at the closing sportsbook can redeem them until June 30.

The Illinois sports betting industry has consistently expanded since launching its first sportsbook at Rivers Casino in Des Plaines in March 2020. Despite the retail location closure, DraftKings has enjoyed success with online revenues, attributing only a small fraction to in-person betting at Wrigley Field.

The emerging dynamics in Illinois show a decisive move towards online sports betting, with the state generating $1.48 billion in revenue in the previous year. This change reflects both economic trends and regulatory challenges within the industry.