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DraftKings received plenty of backlash on Monday, September 11, for a tone-deaf promotion.
The sports betting company used the tragic events of 9/11 for one of its featured daily parlay promotions. The promoted parlay was a “Never Forget” 9/11 parlay featuring New York teams — the Jets, Yankees, and Mets.
Shortly after the parlay was listed, the backlash began pouring out on social media and DraftKings pulled the promotion approximately two hours later.
DraftKings created this "Never Forget" 9/11 parlay featuring three New York teams.
It was taken down after several hours. pic.twitter.com/7crexkTfic
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) September 11, 2023
DraftKings then issued an apology for their parlay that was intended to “commemorate” 9/11.
“We sincerely apologize for the featured parlay that was shared briefly in commemoration of 9/11,” the company said in a statement. “We respect the significance of this day for our country and especially for the families of those who were directly affected.”
DraftKings made the right move by taking the parlay down, but whoever thought it was a good idea to promote the parlay in the first place and the people who approved it probably won’t be having the best days in the office.
As one Twitter (X) user posted: “You don’t ever need to force your brand into a national tragedy to get attention.”
