DRF Bets acquired by 1/ST
From a press release
Affinity Interactive (the “Company”), the parent company of Daily Racing Form (DRF) announced today the successful sale of its advance-deposit wagering (ADW) platform, DRF Bets, to 1/ST TECHNOLOGY, a division of 1/ST, and the parent company of online betting brands 1/ST BET and Xpressbet. Effective Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Xpressbet will assume full ownership and operational control of the platform, rebranding the product as 1/ST BET PRO.
Affinity Interactive and 1/ST TECHNOLOGY have partnered since 2011 to bring DRF Bets to market, with Xpressbet providing back-end technology, wagering, pathways, customer service, and data security. The acquisition marks the next phase in a longstanding relationship between the two organizations.
Customers of DRF will experience a seamless and secure transition to 1/ST BET PRO, with no changes to their user credentials, wagering interface, promotions, or key benefits. Beginning June 10, existing DRF Bets users can log in at 1stbetpro.com or via the new 1/ST BET PRO app on iOS devices using their current DRF Bets credentials.
“This is a pivotal moment for Affinity Interactive and DRF,” said Scott Butera, Chief Executive Officer of Affinity Interactive, the publisher of DRF. “This strategic transaction allows us to sharpen our focus on DRF’s core strengths—premium racing data, expert handicapping, and compelling content. We are now better positioned to collaborate with a broader array of racetracks, wagering platforms, and sportsbook operators as an independent and innovative media and data company.”
As a part of Affinity Interactive’s growth strategy, DRF will accelerate its expansion into affiliate partnerships, e-commerce, and data-driven product lines. By shifting away from direct account wagering operations, DRF will deepen its commitment to providing industry-leading insights and digital tools to horseplayers and fans across the globe.
“This move enhances our ability to serve the broader horse racing and gaming ecosystems, supporting innovation, integrity, and new fan engagement,” added Butera. “We are proud of what we built with DRF Bets and are excited about this next chapter.”
For 1/ST TECHNOLOGY, the acquisition further strengthens its market position as a leader in B2C and B2B wagering technology. Each year, 1/ST TECHNOLOGY services hundreds of thousands of bettors and is responsible for the transmission of billions of dollars in wagers.
“1/ST TECHNOLOGY is committed to continuing to provide the consistent superior service and user experience DRF Bets customers have come to expect—now under the 1/ST BET PRO brand,” said 1/ST TECHNOLOGY President, Keith Johnson. “We look forward to welcoming DRF Bets customers and expanding our product offerings to horseplayers across the country and around the globe.”
Affinity Interactive and DRF remain dedicated to service the horse racing and sports betting communities through trusted journalism, digital innovation, and industry collaboration.
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