Hard Rock Open to Partnering with DraftKings or FanDuel in Florida
Hard Rock International Chairman and Seminole Gaming CEO Jim Allen has expressed a willingness to explore partnerships with commercial sportsbooks.
Florida's sports betting landscape could be on the verge of a major shakeup, as Hard Rock International Chairman and Seminole Gaming CEO Jim Allen expressed a willingness to explore partnerships with commercial sportsbooks. Currently holding an exclusive monopoly on sports betting in the state through a tribal gaming compact, Hard Rock's potential collaborations could mark a significant shift in the market.
The path to sports betting in Florida has been contentious, with industry giants like FanDuel, DraftKings, and Penn Entertainment leading a major push for legalization in 2021. Despite their efforts, the proposal failed, leaving Hard Rock as the sole operator. However, recent comments by FanDuel CEO Amy Howe about revisiting the Florida market prompted a notable response from Allen, who acknowledged ongoing discussions.
"I would say whether it’s FanDuel or whether it’s DraftKings, we’ve actually developed a great relationship with them," Allen said during an interview with CNBC at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas, revealing that he had met with both companies over the previous two days.
"We do recognize that long term, some type of strategic relationship with some of the brands that really have marquee value could be helpful to both of us, and we are receptive to those conversations."
The Sunshine State's potential for sports betting is undeniable, with a population larger than New York's, the current leader in sports betting revenue. Florida is also home to over 20 professional and Division 1 college sports teams, making it a highly attractive market for operators.
FanDuel and DraftKings have not commented on any potential deals with Hard Rock, but interest in Florida remains high. At Flutter's recent investor day, Howe emphasized the company's focus on three "super states": California, Florida, and New York. For years, the state has been considered a lucrative market waiting to be tapped, and the latest developments suggest that a more competitive betting environment could be on the horizon.
