Missouri has officially entered the legal sports betting arena, with a suite of mobile applications now available for download. The launch, which went live on Monday, 1 December 2025, marks a significant shift for the Show-Me State, allowing residents and visitors aged 21 and over to place wagers from their smartphones.
A Competitive Market Emerges
The Missouri Gaming Commission has granted temporary licenses to eight operators, each vying for market share with competitive welcome offers and unique features. British readers with an interest in transatlantic gambling markets will find a landscape reminiscent of the UK's own competitive scene, albeit with distinct local partnerships and regulatory nuances.
All applications require users to be physically located within Missouri's borders, verified by geolocation technology, and to have a valid government-issued ID for age verification. The legal betting age is firmly set at 21 years or older.
Top-Tier Contenders: App Rankings and Reviews
Our analysis, conducted by independent gambling experts, ranks the newly launched platforms based on user experience, market depth, promotional value, and long-term benefits beyond the initial sign-up bonus.
DraftKings Missouri secures a top position, praised for its feature-rich environment and excellent mobile experience. Awarded an untethered license, it operates independently of local casinos. New users can claim a Bet $5, Get $300 in Bonus Bets offer. Its strengths lie in parlay betting and a robust 'Dynasty Rewards' loyalty programme, though the interface may feel cluttered to novices.
FanDuel Missouri, partnered with MLS side St. Louis City SC, is renowned for its best-in-class user interface and is highly recommended for beginners. It mirrors DraftKings' welcome bonus of Bet $5, Get $300. However, it lacks a dedicated loyalty scheme and has more limited coverage of international sports.
For enthusiasts of in-play wagering, Bet365 Missouri is the standout choice. The global brand, which has a partnership with the St. Louis Cardinals, offers an industry-leading live betting service and an extensive live streaming library. Its welcome bonus is Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets.
Rewards, Odds, and Niche Appeal
Bettors attracted to integrated rewards programmes should consider BetMGM, the official partner of the Kansas City Chiefs. Its welcome offer provides up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first wager loses, and points can be redeemed across MGM's casino and hospitality empire.
Caesars Sportsbook, the NFL's official live streaming partner, appeals with daily odds boosts and a strong cash-out feature. Its Bet $5, Get $150 welcome bonus is less generous than some rivals, but its Caesars Rewards programme offers tangible perks.
Fanatics Sportsbook introduces a novel 'FanCash' rewards system, granting up to 10% cashback on every bet placed, win or lose. This can be converted into bonus funds or merchandise from teams like the Chiefs. Its mobile-only platform offers a Bet $30, Get $300 in FanCash promotion.
The rebranded theScore Bet (formerly ESPN BET) is noted for its clean, fast design that seamlessly integrates scores, news, and betting. It is expected to offer a straightforward Bet $10, Get $100 welcome bonus, making it ideal for casual users.
Finally, Circa Sports caters to sharp, experienced bettors with its Vegas-style, reduced-juice odds. It holds an untethered license but currently has no advertised welcome bonus and lower app store ratings, indicating a product focused on value over polish.
Essential Considerations for Responsible Play
As with any gambling jurisdiction, responsible participation is paramount. All licensed apps provide tools for setting deposit, loss, and time limits, alongside options for self-exclusion. Winnings are subject to US federal tax, and Missouri residents must report them on state returns.
For UK observers, the Missouri launch illustrates the continued expansion of regulated sports betting in the US, showcasing a model that combines digital innovation with strict age and location verification. The market's evolution, particularly the performance of apps like Bet365 and Fanatics with their distinct British and retail influences, will be one to watch.
