The Connecticut Lottery Corporation named Fanatics Betting and Gaming as its new sports betting partner Friday, completing an eight-month process and securing a commercial provider to operate the state lottery's mobile and retail sportsbook channels.
Fanatics' entry into the Nutmeg State thrusts the upstart sportsbook into direct competition with DraftKings and FanDuel, which dominate market share in the New England jurisdiction. Upon Fanatics' launch, the trio will be the only operators with market access in Connecticut, a state that is located within shouting distance of New York City. It’s also home to the University of Connecticut, whose Storrs campus is located less than 100 miles from the Boston Harbor.
“Fanatics is the only true sports brand in the gaming space and has established itself as an innovator in the industry,” said Greg Smith, president and CEO of the Connecticut Lottery Corporation (CLC). “We have been impressed with the Fanatics team, their aggressive entry into the U.S. sports betting market, and we are excited to see how they redefine the sports betting customer experience here in Connecticut.”
The CLC began the process for a new sportsbook provider in April, weeks after Rush Street Interactive'pulled out of a 10-year partnership.