Leaving no stone unturned

ESPN is making sure that all of its employees are aware of what they can and can’t do when it comes to the soon-to-launch ESPN BET. The new online sportsbook brand is launching on Tuesday in 17 states, so the Disney-owned media behemoth has laid out strict guidelines for its 5,000 or so employees.

ward off any potential questions regarding journalistic integrity

In an attempt to ward off any potential questions regarding journalistic integrity, no employee who covers a given sports league or has a close business relationship with one of these organizations is permitted to place bets on related events. Anyone who violates this rule will be terminated.

Handling sensitive information

Employees also can’t withhold any inside information – like news about an injury or team selection – and use it for potential gain through gambling. In addition, they are not allowed to place bets on any markets that off-field metrics determine, such as awards like MVP.

All of these rules extend to anyone who tries to use a third party to place bets for them. Referring to the disclosure of information, ESPN’s guidelines state that no story “should be reported, delayed, influenced or withheld with the intention of impacting betting lines.”

All eyes on the launch

The launch of ESPN BET is highly anticipated and is set to shake up the US sports betting scene. DraftKings and FanDuel have dominated the sector for years, with BetMGM sitting in a distant third place in terms of market share.

licensing the ESPN name for an initial ten-year period

PENN Entertainment is supplying the technology and will operate the ESPN BET platforms, licensing the ESPN name for an initial ten-year period. This replaces PENN’s previous sportsbook that used the Barstool Sports brand; PENN already has market access in a large number of states.