DraftKings Facing Criticism After Offering Ill-Conceived 9/11-Themed Bet

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the September 11 attacks, in which nearly 3,000 Americans were killed in the deadliest terror assault on U.S. soil. And yet, it seems as though brands still can't discern between classy and crass 9/11 tributes, as some unfortunate company seems to learn the hard way with each and every passing year.

This year, that burden has evidently fallen onto DraftKings. The sports betting company posted an unfortunately worded parlay on its app on Sunday night while announcing Monday's sporting events from New York teams—including the Mets, Yankees, and Jets—that users can wager on.

"NEVER FORGET," the company wrote in all-caps, referencing the ubiquitous tribute slogan commonly associated with the somber day. "Bet on these New York teams to win tonight on 9/11."

Suffice to say, it took only a New York minute before people began calling out DraftKings for the tasteless promotion. "No way DraftKings did a 'Never Forget 9/11' parlay," posted user Chuck Goldberg on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter), summing up many people's thoughts.

"You have a **9/11 themed parlay** in your app," user Nick Rudman emphasized.

Plenty of others likewise jumped into the fray, dragging DraftKings for the insensitive promotion. Some wondered how long it would be until the sports book would remove the parlay, while others chalked up the momentary lapse in judgement as everything from "insane" and wildin'" to "anti-American."

Thankfully—although perhaps due to getting called out—DraftKings eventually removed the parlay from its app and issued an apology via Michael Silverman of The Boston Globe.

"We sincerely apologize for the featured parlay that was shared briefly in commemoration of 9/11," the company said in the statement. "We respect the significance of this day for our country and especially for the [families] of those who were directly affected."