A new arena for sports engagement has opened, shifting the focus from simply betting *on* a game’s outcome to predicting *what will happen* within it. This evolution is spearheaded by a powerful alliance between Crypto.com and Fanatics, promising a fresh experience for sports enthusiasts.
Travis McGhee, leading predictions at Crypto.com, emphasized the company’s pioneering role, recalling their initial launch of sports prediction markets and the expansion fueled by partnerships like the one with Fanatics. He expressed immense pride in being Fanatics’ chosen partner, highlighting a shared commitment to providing a secure and legally sound platform for fans.
Matt King, CEO of Fanatics Betting and Gaming, echoed this sentiment, describing Fanatics Markets as a gateway to a more immersive and potentially profitable fan experience. The goal is to empower fans to not just watch, but to actively participate in the unfolding drama of sports and culture, with the chance to benefit from their insights.
Access to this new form of engagement is currently restricted to individuals aged 21 and over. The initial rollout is focused on ten states: Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and Utah, marking the first wave of availability.
However, this is just the beginning. A significant expansion is already planned, with states like Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin slated to gain access “sooner than you think,” according to announcements from the brand.
Fanatics’ entry into prediction markets represents a significant disruption. Previously, this niche was largely dominated by specialized platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket. Now, a major player with established reach and brand recognition is entering the field, potentially accelerating its growth and mainstream acceptance.
This new landscape isn’t without its challenges. Regulatory scrutiny remains a key concern, with some states voicing reservations about the legality and safety of prediction markets. Maryland recently issued warnings to licensees regarding their involvement in these offerings.
The involvement of a heavyweight like Fanatics could, however, force regulators to revisit the conversation. Increased industry participation may prompt further discussions and potentially lead to clearer, more comprehensive regulations governing prediction markets across the country.
