Fanatics Betting and Gaming is preparing to enter Missouri’s sports wagering market through a new collaboration with Boyd Gaming Corporation. On August 25, the companies announced a multi-year deal. The agreement allows Fanatics to operate both mobile and retail sportsbooks in the state.
Fanatics Sportsbook will run its mobile betting app under the Missouri license of Boyd under the terms of the agreement. The collaboration also covers two retail locations at Boyd’s Ameristar properties. These are Ameristar Casino Hotel Kansas City and Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St. Charles. These are located just outside St. Louis. Fanatics plans to launch both online and in-person wagering in Missouri by December. The rollout will coincide with the start of legal sports betting, pending approval from state regulators.
Missouri bettors will be able to download the Fanatics Sportsbook app on iOS and Android once operational. Fanatics announced it will extend its rewards program. The program offers up to 10% FanCash back on wagers and includes unique features such as Fair Play injury protection.
The entry of Fanatics makes it the eighth operator to secure market access in Missouri. Other sportsbooks with confirmed plans include DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, PENN/ESPN BET, and Circa Sports. The state’s framework requires most operators to partner with either a professional sports franchise or a Missouri casino. Only two untethered licenses are available. Those independent licenses have been claimed by DraftKings and Circa in early August.
After missing out on untethered access, FanDuel quickly collaborated with MLS club St. Louis City SC to ensure entry. While BetMGM signed on with Century Casinos, Bet365 aligned with the St. Louis Cardinals. Smaller operators such as Underdog, BetRivers, and Hard Rock could still enter as the market develops. Meanwhile, Caesars and PENN Entertainment benefit from their existing casino holdings in Missouri.
