DraftKings to enter UK under Haas' leadership

Speculation on the destination of Bwin.Party’s senior executive and group director for poker Jeffrey Haas has ended (see previous report) with the news that the industry veteran has been appointed by daily fantasy sports operator DraftKings.

Haas will lead DraftKings’ international expansion under the title of chief international officer and will head up the company’s new London office.

In related news, DraftKings will expand into the UK market following the award of a gambling software and pool betting licence from the UK Gambling Commission. The company said it expects to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2015.

“Our expansion into the United Kingdom marks a milestone moment in the growth of DraftKings as we introduce our world-class product to new audiences,” Jason Robins, chief executive officer for DraftKings said. “We will add new sports and games to our burgeoning roster of offerings and further connect fans to their favorite teams and players.

“We also welcome the opportunity to forge new partnerships with leagues, teams and media outlets internationally as we have done with exceptional success in the United States.”

As it continues its meteoric rise, DraftKings is eyeing other markets with plans to expand into Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America” in 2016.