Published on: November 29, 2024, 05:29h.
Last updated on: November 29, 2024, 05:32h.
Today’s announcement of a partnership between FanDuel and the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) raised the question: Why did it take so long?
Official Sportsbook Partner
The PWHL’s second season begins tomorrow. The league’s first game in 2023 had 2.9 million viewers, and the “Battle on Bay Street” drew 19,285 spectators, the largest for a women’s hockey game.
FanDuel has been named the Official Sportsbook Partner of the PWHL and the exclusive In-app Streaming Partner for the league on the FanDuel app.
PWHL Season Starts Tomorrow
Since its launch, the PWHL secured multiple sponsorships with well-known companies. FanDuel’s sponsorship shows their commitment to women’s hockey.
A sportsbook sponsor was missing. With the PWHL gaining attention and support, the absence of a sportsbook sponsorship surprised many in the industry.
It’s surprising it took the PWHL this long to partner with a gambling company,” said industry consultant Aly Lalani. “While the immediate gains may be limited, the partnership adds credibility.”
Effect on female sports betting
A marketing consultant speculated that the PWHL’s limited reach delayed a sportsbook partnership. However, the quality of play in the league makes it an attractive opportunity.
Many believe that FanDuel’s gesture is an attempt to tap into a growing market of female sports bettors, especially with the Winter Olympics approaching.
Six teams
FanDuel aims to enhance fan engagement and support women’s professional sports through the partnership with the PWHL.
The PWHL consists of six teams – Boston Fleet, Minnesota Frost, Montreal Victoire, New York Sirens, Ottawa Charge, and Toronto Sceptres.
“It’s fantastic to see an operator like FanDuel supporting women’s professional sports,” said Amanda Brewer, an igaming consultant.
Expansion Talks Next
This season, FanDuel plans to offer more betting options to customers, bringing them closer to the PWHL experience.
“We are proud to support professional female athletes and promote fan engagement in the sports community,” said Alannah Della Vedova, Director of Content and Brand at FanDuel Canada.
FanDuel Introduces New PWHL Markets
Ontario customers can wager on PWHL expansion through novelty markets on FanDuel Sportsbook. Other sportsbooks offer varying PWHL options, with some missing the opportunity to associate with the league.
“Sponsoring the PWHL was a missed opportunity for smaller brands to gain credibility. It will be interesting to see how FanDuel activates this partnership,” Lalani added.