Kickr to Shut Down March 31st Amid Sweeps Casino Market Shakeup

Kickr, a popular US sweepstakes casino is officially ending its run. In an email sent to players, the site shared that it’s targeting a March 2026 deadline. As of this writing, the platform is still accessible and players can still use their Bits and Bucks to play casino-style games and join the social sportsbook action and initiate redemption. But by March 31st, Kickr the platform becomes off-limits to all players, and any unused virtual coins are deemed lost. 

According to Kickr’s management, the decision to close doors was made due to “shifting market conditions and our parent company’s strategic decision to focus on new verticals and brands”.

Kickr Crumbles Under Mounting Pressure and Regulatory Scrutiny of Escalante’s Businesses

It seems that Kickr’s decision to cease operations is affected by a broader issues surrounding sweepstakes casinos and pressure on its owner, Laurence Escalante. 

Escalante, the founder and former CEO of Virtual Gaming Worlds (which operates Chumba Casino and LuckyLand), also founded Kickr. He founded this new social sportsbook through his family-controlled business, rather than a direct brand of VGW. 

Established in 2023 and registered in Australia, Kickr was marketed as a social sportsbook. However, Escalante’s decision didn’t sit well with many employees and stockholders. Many saw Escalante’s action as a threat to existing VGW brands, such as Chumba Casino, Global Poker, and LuckyLand. These issues and the complaints fizzeled out in August 2025 when Escalante initiated a buyout of shares.

In addition, Escalante’s personal life appears to be affecting his leadership and day-to-day-management.

A few weeks ago, Escalante landed in the headlines after being slapped with burglary and drug-related complaints. He has since stepped out of the leadership role, while taking a leave of absence.

What Happens Next to Kickr Players?

There are a few operational changes at Kickr as of this writing.  Currently, new players can’t access the platform’s registration form, and purchases of the social sportsbook’s virtual currencies are now paused.  Also, players are advised to redeem all eligible rewards before March 31st.

Although players can continue using the platform and play, Kickr will shut down after this date.

REFERENCES

• Kickr email

• VGW