NYSGC Approves Transfer of WynnBet License to Penn for ESPN Bet Launch

The New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) has voted to transfer Wynn Resorts' digital sports betting license to Penn Entertainment, paving the way for ESPN Bet to launch in New York by the weekend.

Penn Entertainment had struck a deal to acquire WynnBet’s license for $25 million in February, following WynnBet's exit from the state's digital betting market in July. With New York's cap of nine digital wagering licenses, this transfer was crucial for ESPN Bet to enter the market.

Chris Rogers, Penn’s executive vice president, said the company has “a couple of boxes to check” on technology but plans for a launch "in several days, perhaps a soft launch in advance of the weekend." This would allow ESPN Bet to go live in time for Week 4 of the NFL season, with all three New York teams scheduled to play.

Rogers also addressed questions about ESPN Bet's potential impact on the New York market, noting that WynnBet's lack of traction might mean ESPN Bet could attract new customers rather than just shifting existing bettors. "We attract a different kind of bettor," Rogers explained. "We expect to grow the market... as people try a new platform."