New Hampshire gamblers will now be able to legally on sports with the launch of the new DraftKings sportsbook. Even though the legalized mobile sports betting has been allowed in the state in December, it is only now that the players will be able to get access to sports betting in the retail space. The DraftKings sportsbook is the first of its kind in the state.

Brick-and-mortar presence for DraftKings

DraftKings is a daily fantasy sports and sports betting operator that is increasing its brick-and-mortar presence across the US states. Earlier, in December 2019, it launched a mobile sports betting option for the users. On Wednesday, it announced a new retail sportsbook at The Brook, making it the first live sportsbook in the state.

The Brook Casino is located at the site of the former Seabrook Greyhound racetrack. It opened for business in June after remaining closed for at least two months after the March shutdown. At the time, state authorities urged all businesses to close shop because of the coronavirus pandemic. The facility initially planned to open the sportsbooks in March during March Madness or NCAA Men’s basketball tournament. However, the plans were delayed because of the pandemic.

Sportsbooks launched with protocols

The retail sportsbook launched this week with safety and health protocols in place. The employees and the guests at the property have to customarily wear masks. The property has several hand sanitizing stations. It will remain closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for deep cleaning to ensure safety.

Professional sports leagues are returning which will give DraftKings a chance to get higher volumes compared to previous months. Andre Carrier, the CEO of The Brook said that the timing for DraftKings sportsbooks to be up and running was just right. He added, “It’s pretty much a panacea for sports bettors right now with the NBA, the NHL, Major League Baseball, and, hopefully, the NFL next month. It’s not the NCAA Tournament. But, frankly, this might be even better, with all that’s going on.”

The DraftKings sportsbook is available in the sports entertainment viewing area at the Brook called The Stadium.