DraftKings, FanDuel merger rumors heat up, management roles reportedly sorted

Rumors of a merger between daily fantasy sports operators DraftKings and FanDuel are heating up, including a reported decision on the combined entity’s management structure.

On Friday, ESPN reported that the merger of the two companies was “imminent,” with public confirmation expected as early as this week. The merger reportedly gained new momentum following the two companies’ dual $6m settlements last week with New York’s Attorney General over deceptive marketing practices.

On Monday, Bloomberg reported that the parties had decided that DraftKings CEO Jason Robins (pictured far right) would lead the merged entity, with FanDuel CEO Nigel Eccles (on the left) acting as chairman, while the company’s board would be drawn equally from both companies. However, the companies apparently haven’t ruled out bringing in an outside exec to serve as CEO.

Other details, such as what name the new company will operate under, or where the corporate HQ will be based, are reportedly still being decided. Neither company is commenting on the rumors.