For bettors, the Gateway to the West is almost ready to open up to online sports gambling. Missouri voted to legalize sports betting in November of last year.
The Missouri gaming authority has granted licenses to eight sportsbooks to operate in the state. DraftKings, Circa, Bet365, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, theScore, Bet, Fanatics Sportsbook and FanDuel are all set to welcome bets from December 1.
The number of Missouri betting apps accepting wagers from December 1 was due to be nine. Nonetheless, Underdog Sports handed back its license just a week before the launch in a shocking move.
With pre-registrations open from November 17, a lot of the remaining sportsbooks have made pre-launch Missouri sportsbook promos for bettors.
They’ve looked at all the legal and licensed operators heading to the state to pick the best sportsbooks that Missourians will gain access to when Missouri sports betting goes live.
Since Congress overturned the federal restriction on sports betting outside Nevada in 2018, states have taken action. They have gradually passed legislation to regulate wagering. Only approving sports betting in November of the previous year after Amendment 2 narrowly passed, Missouri was slower than most.
Neighboring Kansas legalized betting in 2022. Pressure from professional sports teams and major operators highlighted Missouri as a missed opportunity. Their lobbying ultimately helped push the measure over the line with voters in late 2024.
The Missouri Gaming Commission requested emergency approval to fast-track regulations hoping to launch in time for March Madness 2025. Nevertheless, stating the situation did not meet the criteria for emergency rulemaking, Secretary of State Denny Hoskins rejected the request.
Missouri will officially launch sports betting on December 1 with the timeline now confirmed. Residents cannot place wagers until launch day. However, they have been downloading sportsbook apps, creating accounts, and depositing funds since November 17, when both online and retail sportsbooks go live simultaneously.
