Puerto Rico just got a game-changer in sports wagering. DraftKings launched its online sportsbook on February 23, 2026, bringing mobile betting to residents after a retail debut last fall. This move opens up exciting options for locals, but with strict rules in place. What does it mean for the island’s betting scene?
DraftKings kicked off its online sports betting in Puerto Rico this week, marking a big step for the U.S. territory. The Boston-based company started offering the service to eligible users on Monday. This follows the opening of a physical betting spot at Foxwoods El San Juan Casino in November 2025.
Residents can now place bets from their phones, but they must first sign up in person at the casino. This setup ensures only Puerto Ricans get online access. It builds on the island’s growing love for sports like baseball and basketball.
The launch taps into a hot trend. Across the U.S., about 28 percent of adults have bet on sports in the past year, according to a recent Deseret News poll from February 2026. Puerto Rico’s version promises to pull in local fans who follow MLB and NBA games closely.
The Key Role of Foxwoods Partnership
Foxwoods El San Juan Casino plays a central part in this rollout. The iconic San Juan spot teamed up with DraftKings to host the retail sportsbook first. Now, it serves as the hub for online registrations too.
This partnership blends luxury gaming with modern tech. Foxwoods, known for its vibrant atmosphere, draws crowds from across the island. DraftKings brings its top-notch app to make betting seamless.
Visitors from outside Puerto Rico miss out on the mobile side. They can still bet in person at the casino, keeping things fair under local rules. This rule helps control access and follows Puerto Rico’s gaming laws set in 2019.
The tie-up shows how casinos and online giants work together. It boosts both spots while expanding reach.
Betting Features That Excite Users
DraftKings packs its platform with tools to keep bettors engaged. Users get in-game wagering, letting them bet as games unfold. Same-game parlays mix multiple outcomes from one match for bigger wins.
Odds boosts add extra value on select bets. Fans can wager on major leagues like NFL, MLB, and NBA. Soccer and other sports round out the options.
One quick note. All bets must follow responsible gaming guidelines.
Here’s a look at some standout features:
- In-game betting for real-time action.
- Custom parlays to build unique wagers.
- Boosted odds for better payouts.
- Live stats to inform choices.
These perks make the app user-friendly. New bettors find it easy to jump in, while pros chase advanced plays.
Growth Sparks Economic Hopes
This launch could lift Puerto Rico’s economy. The island’s gaming sector pulled in over $362 million in net revenue from 2023 to 2024, per government data. Sports betting adds to that pot, creating jobs and tax income.
DraftKings itself saw huge gains last year. The company reported $6.05 billion in revenue for 2025, up sharply from before. Its sports betting arm drove much of that growth.
Experts see potential. The U.S. sports betting market might hit $160 billion in wagers this year, based on 2026 projections from industry reports. Puerto Rico could grab a slice, drawing more tourism and local spending.
Regulations keep things in check. The Puerto Rico Gaming Commission oversees operations since Law 81 in 2019. No big tax hikes on winnings for players, but operators pay fees that fund public needs.
One concern lingers. Like anywhere, betting carries risks. Groups push for awareness to protect users.
| League | Popular Bet Types | Why It Matters in PR |
|---|---|---|
| MLB | Home run props, game totals | Baseball fever runs high on the island. |
| NFL | Point spreads, player stats | Football draws big crowds during season. |
| NBA | Over/under scores, parlays | Local fans cheer for stars like those in Miami Heat games. |
This table highlights how leagues fit local tastes.
As DraftKings settles in, it eyes more expansions. The company now operates in 26 states plus D.C. and Puerto Rico. Future moves might include more features or partnerships.
Puerto Ricans wake up to a new way to enjoy their favorite teams, blending tech with tradition in a thrilling mix. This step forward promises fun and growth, but it reminds us to bet smart.
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