Two major gaming operators are expanding their reach outside of the U.S. mainland.
On Nov. 14, DraftKings opened a new retail sportsbook at Foxwoods El San Juan Casino, marking the company’s first foray in Puerto Rico’s gaming market. DraftKings launched the brick-and-mortar venue in partnership with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and hospitality investment firm LionGrove.
The property opened its new DraftKings sportsbook with the help of former New York Yankees catcher Jorge Posada, who made the retail sportsbook’s ceremonial first bet. Foxwoods El San Juan, which celebrated its four-year anniversary, has over 250 slots and table games. The new sportsbook houses a lounge, self-service betting kiosks and ticket windows.
“Puerto Rico has an incredible sports culture and a deep connection to entertainment,” said DraftKings President of Operations Paul Liberman. “We’re thrilled to bring our retail sportsbook to the Foxwoods El San Juan Casino and look forward to providing eligible customers with a fun, seamless and responsible way to engage with their favorite sports.”
DraftKings is also planning to offer online wagering in Puerto Rico, pending regulatory approvals. For now, its retail presence in Puerto Rico adds another North American market to its list. DraftKings is also live with sports betting in 28 U.S. states, plus Washington, D.C. and Ontario.
BetMGM adds to existing operations in Puerto Rico
BetMGM is also delivering new gaming options to bettors in Puerto Rico. Last week, it announced the opening of a retail sportsbook at the Mayaguez Resort and Casino as part of its market access deal with Casino del Mar at La Concha Resort.
BetMGM landed the market access agreement in 2021 to provide retail and online sports wagering in Puerto Rico. Casino Del Mar was the first property in Puerto Rico to be awarded a sports betting license by the U.S. territory’s gaming commission. The casino is operated by Paulson Puerto Rico, a tourism and hospitality-focused investment firm.
“The goal is to replicate the same success achieved in San Juan with the opening of new satellites all over Puerto Rico. That way, residents from other areas will have access to the same quality entertainment experience that has made Casino del Mar and BetMGM so successful,” said Paulson Puerto Rico President Rolando Padua.
DraftKings and BetMGM are continuing to establish a retail wagering presence in Puerto Rico as gaming rules in the territory only allow residents to wager with online platforms. Visitors of Puerto Rico who want to wager on sports are restricted to retail sportsbooks.
FanDuel also offers retail wagering in Puerto Rico through a deal with Caribbean CAGE, a company that specializes in the installation and operation of gaming terminals. Earlier this year, PrizePicks became the first DFS operator to gain market access in Puerto Rico, and it plans to go live there in the coming months.
