Polygon's Secret Deal: Sending DraftKings Millions to Run Failed Validator
Summary
In early 2022, Polygon Labs announced that DraftKings would begin running a network validator, marking a milestone in blockchain governance. However, it was revealed that Polygon paid DraftKings millions in MATIC tokens to do this. DraftKings was given far more privileges and gains in this relationship than other validators, being paid more for their role and even taking 100% commission on stake rewards. Former delegators have complained about this unfair system. Following a decline in performance, the instruction under DraftKings was finally removed from the network in October 2023. Representatives from both companies have refused to comment on these findings, citing confidentiality.
