DraftKings plans for Alberta entry before 2026 FIFA World Cup
DraftKings, the digital sports entertainment and gaming company, has set out plans to enter Alberta, marking its second expansion into Canada after launching in Ontario in 2022. The move is still subject to licensing and regulatory approval, but the company has already opened pre-registration for users in the province.
The company has already opened pre-registrations to bring in early users ahead of a formal launch. The aim is to build momentum from the outset and get customers familiar with the platform before it goes live. DraftKings has said that, if it receives approval, it plans to roll out both its online sportsbook and casino offerings in Alberta
The province’s regulated online betting market is set to open on 13 July 2026, with the process overseen by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission. DraftKings plans to go live on the same date, provided it secures the required approvals in time.
Just before FIFA World Cup
For the unaware, the launch is also aligned with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. DraftKings has directly tied its Alberta rollout to the tournament window. The company views it as a key opportunity to drive early user engagement.
Major sporting events like the World Cup are likely to bring a sharp rise in betting activity, particularly in newly opened markets. For operators, launching during such a period can help build momentum quickly, as fans look for more interactive ways to follow matches and outcomes.
If approved, Alberta would become the 34th jurisdiction in North America where DraftKings offers online sports betting. It would also be the seventh region where the company provides online casino services. The expansion is a strategy focused on entering regulated markets as they open and scaling operations across multiple regions.
Platform already active in Ontario
DraftKings’ experience in Ontario is likely to help in Alberta rollout. Ontario remains is considered one of the most regulated online betting market in Canada, with several operators competing for market share. The company has been active there since May 2022, offering both sports betting and casino products.
Beyond Canada, DraftKings continues to expand its footprint in the United States. The company recently received approval from the Arkansas Racing Commission for a vendor licence, allowing it to launch its sportsbook in the state. This approval followed a partnership with Southland Casino Hotel, where its platform has replaced the existing Betly-branded mobile sportsbook.
At the same time, competition in Arkansas is also increasing. FanDuel has secured approval through a separate partnership with Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, highlighting how multiple operators are moving quickly to establish a presence in newly regulated markets.
These parallel developments show a major trend across North America, where companies are focusing on expansion into regulated regions while competition continues to grow. Alberta’s upcoming market launch is expected to attract several major operators, making it one of the next key battlegrounds in Canada’s online betting sector. With its planned entry closely tied to a major global sporting event, DraftKings appears to be capturing early interest as the market opens.
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