FanDuel Announces Partnership With Carolina Panthers Ahead of March 11 Sports Betting Launch

The Carolina Panthers have finally found a sports betting partner ahead of the industry’s launch in the Tar Heel State. 

FanDuel had gained access to the North Carolina market thanks to a partnership with the PGA Tour. Their new partnership with the Panthers allows them access to one of the state’s most prominent sports franchises.

“Bringing FanDuel to sports fans across North Carolina is an important moment for our business, and we are thrilled to be able to work with the Carolina Panthers to introduce their fanbase to America’s number one sportsbook,” said FanDuel CCO MarkRaffensperger said of the partnership. “We look forward to supporting the team next season and engaging the passionate sports fans across North Carolina with our product.”

The deal gives the Panthers a sports betting partner less than a week before the state's March 11 sports betting launch. They were the largest pro sports franchise without a partner, though they were the biggest prize for the state’s eight operators.

The deal will allow FanDuel to advertise at the Panthers’ Bank of America Stadium, where they can also host exclusive events. 

“We are thrilled to welcome FanDuel as an official sports betting partner,” said Kristi Coleman, Carolina Panthers president. “As we look ahead to the 2024 season, we’re excited about the opportunities this partnership presents to deliver unique and engaging experiences to our fans while they are in North Carolina.”

Eight Sportsbook Ready to Launch on March 11

The North Carolina Lottery Commission (NCLC) awarded eight operating licenses last Thursday, just hours before the pre-registration window opened. The list of sportsbooks that will be live and accepting bets includes the following:

• bet365

• BetMGM

• Caesars

• DraftKings

• ESPN Bet

• Fanatics

• FanDuel

• Underdog Sports

In addition to these eight operators, the Catawba Nation is also looking to launch a sportsbook soon. They were not able to secure an operating partner in time for the March 11 launch but are hoping to launch a platform later this year.