FanDuel launches in Washington, D.C. as exclusive sportsbook

After receiving the go-ahead from the DC Lottery on March 9, 2024, FanDuel has now launched in an official capacity as the exclusive sports betting provider in the District of Columbia, the Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG) said in an official press statement.

Starting from Monday, FanDuel’s sports betting app and website have been available to District residents and visitors, allowing them to sign up and place bets on their favorite sports events. The FanDuel app and website are replacing OLG’s own GambetDC, which misfired and failed to generate the expected revenue and results.

OLG initially hoped to maintain a monopoly over the market without involving third-party companies or limiting its presence, but several years of moribund results have convinced the organization to seek an alternative. Players who wish to register at FanDuel would be able to download the app from the App Store or Google Play, or alternatively visit the website.

A simple account registration will be in place. Players additionally have by October 15, 2024, to withdraw their funds from GambetDC as the funds will not be transmitted automatically into the FanDuel platform, nor will their registrations be carried over, creating a small friction in the process of migrating existing customers.

Still, the OLG believes this to be the right move stepping forward. Commenting on this opportunity, OLG Executive Director Frank Suarez said that he was very happy to see the transition take place and that with FanDuel’s rollout, residents and visitors would have access to one of the best sports wagering platforms.

"FanDuel’s entry into our market brings not only a reliable, customer-friendly sports wagering experience to the nation’s capital, but it also includes guaranteed revenue that will be used to fund vital city programs," Suarez added.

The legal gambling age for anyone who wishes to place a sports wager from within the District area is 18. Mobile wagering will be available almost unperturbed with the exception of a two-block radius around Class A facilities, such as the Nationals Park, Capital One Arena, Sports Arena, St. Elizabeths East Entertainment, and Audi Field.

Federal lands are also considered to be ineligible places to gamble from, including the White House, Capitol, Congressional office buildings, East Potomac Park, National Mall, and Rock Creek Park.

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