DraftKings Targets Alberta iGaming Launch Ahead of July Rollout

DraftKings is lining up a launch in Alberta, aiming to go live with its sportsbook and online casino on 13 July 2026, subject to regulatory approval. The province has set a single start date for all approved operators, and DraftKings is positioning itself to be ready on day one rather than arriving late. 

If approval is granted, Alberta will become the second Canadian province where DraftKings runs both sportsbook and casino products, after Ontario. It also pushes the company into its 34th North American sportsbook jurisdiction and its seventh online casino jurisdiction.  

“We’re excited about the opportunity to expand DraftKings’ footprint in Canada and bring our online sportsbook and casino experiences to customers in Alberta,” said Greg Karamitis, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Sports at DraftKings. “With the anticipated launch aligning with the World Cup — hosted right here in North America — it’s a particularly exciting moment for sports fans in the province to engage with our platform.” 

Following similar moves by other operators, such as Caesars and BetRivers, DraftKings has also said its pre-registration is open to residents in the Alberta sports betting and Alberta online casinos markets.

The expansion reflects broader momentum among major operators seeking entry into newly regulated Canadian markets. The impending launch by Alberta is attracting attention because of the open-market approach it is adopting, similar to that used by Ontario.  

Alberta sets timeline and framework

Alberta has officially announced the launch date of its regulated online gambling industry to be July 13. This followed consultations between Minister Dale Nally's office and the interested parties, who needed additional time to meet the province's regulations. 

This regulatory framework was introduced earlier this year through amendments to Alberta's Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Regulation. These updates clarified licensing rules, advertising standards, and responsible gambling requirements. At the same time, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) opened registration for operators and suppliers. 

Market entry requires a two-step process. Operators must first secure regulatory approval from AGLC and then finalize a commercial agreement with the Alberta iGaming Corporation, which will oversee market operations. Authorities also introduced temporary transition measures for gray market operators, though these provisions will end on the launch date. 

Operators who have already completed registration have begun preparing technical integrations, including systems linked to a centralized self-exclusion program. Final operating agreements and policy details were expected by mid-April. 

While Alberta has not published an official list of licensees, several major brands are expected to participate. These include FanDuel, BetMGM, BetRivers, and theScore Bet, as well as international operators such as Betway and PointsBet. 

Ontario's open-market model continues to deliver measurable growth. Last year, the regulated Ontario online casinos sector generated $4 billion in revenue, up 34% from a year earlier. The increase reflects continued market growth and offers a reference point for jurisdictions such as Alberta.