By Reuters Staff
The ESPN logo is seen on an electronic display in Times Square in New York City, U.S., August 23, 2017. REUTERS/Mike Segar
(Reuters) – Walt Disney Cos ESPN is looking to license its brand to major sports-betting companies for at least $3 billion over several years to take advantage of the booming online betting industry, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.
It held talks to license its brand to sportsbooks including Caesars Entertainment and DraftKings, the report on.wsj.com/3DmEgGp said, adding there is no guarantee that it will reach a deal.
The companies did not immediately respond to requests from Reuters for comment.
It remains unclear whether gaming companies would want to pay for the ESPN name when they are already investing to establish their existing brands, the report said.
As more states legalize sports betting, media companies have turned to the sector to diversify their revenue. Fox Corp launched reut.rs/3jtd3dv the FOX Bet sports betting platform in 2019 through a partnership with The Stars Group.
Disney shares jumped 2.1% after the news.read more
ESPN explores sports-betting deal worth at least $3 billion – WSJ – Reuters.com
