Neither RSI nor Betsson have yet made any comment on the potential takeover bids, but industry analysts believe that a takeover of RSI’s sports betting operations would be Fanatics’ preferred option as the operator currently has sportsbooks available in ten states across the US. Betsson, on the other hand, has yet to enter the US market.
However, any takeover of RSI’s sports betting operations may be complicated by the fact the operator is reported to be considering the availability of ESPN’s brand name for $3 billion. The Disney-owned sports network is prepared to license its brand name to a sports betting operator for a period of several years and RSI has reportedly joined DraftKings and Caesars as registering its interest.
No figures have been reported for either potential takeover bids.
Based in London, Natasha is a former sports journalist with experience working for some of the biggest athletes & brands in the world of sports and iGaming.