DraftKings announced it will shut down face-to-face wagering services at Wrigley Field while continuing to operate its bar and entertainment facility next to the Chicago Cubs’ historic stadium.
The company revealed Monday that May 31 will mark the last day for placing bets in person at the location, which opened two years ago.
The facility had been strategically positioned to capture heavy pedestrian traffic before, during and after Cubs games on Chicago’s north side at Sheffield Avenue and Addison Street.
Following the sportsbook’s debut at Wrigley, DraftKings and competing gambling companies have encountered significant tax hikes. Chicago imposed a 10.25% sports wagering tax on bets placed within the city and has a per-wager fee or tax.
“While we are proud of what we have built alongside the Chicago Cubs, we are taking a more focused approach to where we invest in the state,” DraftKings said. “The cost of operating in Illinois, including its high tax structure, makes it more difficult to justify continued investment in a standalone retail sportsbook.”
Baseball fans at Wrigley Field and throughout Illinois will continue to have the option of placing wagers at the stadium through mobile sportsbook apps.
