The Show-Me State has officially shown its hand, with the launch of legalised sports betting proving an immediate hit. The market went live on Monday 1 December 2025, and within the first week, over 250,000 new betting accounts were activated, according to the Missouri Gaming Commission.
A Competitive Market Takes Shape
Missouri residents now have access to a competitive field of eight licensed online sportsbook operators. The available platforms are DraftKings, Bet365, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel, Fanatics Sportsbook, theScore Bet, and Circa Sports. These operators launched with mobile apps and, in some cases, accompanying retail locations.
One notable absence was Underdog Sports, which withdrew its license application at the last minute on 25 November, despite pre-launch partnerships with the St. Louis Blues and Kansas City Royals. The operator cited a strategic shift towards its predictions market products.
Top-Tier Operators and Key Partnerships
The entrance of these major players has been bolstered by significant partnerships with Missouri's professional sports teams. DraftKings aligned with the St. Louis Blues NHL franchise, while Bet365 secured a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals, featuring branding at Busch Stadium. FanDuel's gateway to the state came via a partnership with MLS side St. Louis City SC.
BetMGM accessed the market through Century Casinos, and Caesars Sportsbook is linked to its existing casino properties in the state. These alliances are expected to drive local engagement and offer team-specific promotions.
Navigating the Rules and Regulations
Bettors must adhere to clear state regulations. The legal betting age in Missouri is 21 years old, and there is no residency requirement, though users must be physically located within state borders, verified by geolocation technology.
The state imposes a 10% tax on sports betting revenue, below the national average. While bettors do not pay tax at the sportsbook level, winnings are considered taxable income. A federal tax rate of 24% applies to wins of $5,000 or more, and winnings must be declared on both federal and state tax returns.
A Guide to Responsible Gambling
With the new market's arrival, emphasis is placed on safe and controlled betting. All licensed Missouri sportsbooks provide tools such as deposit limits, time-out features, and self-exclusion options. The Missouri Gaming Commission also maintains a statewide self-exclusion programme.
Support is available for anyone concerned about their gambling through the National Council on Problem Gambling (1-800-522-4700) and the Missouri Department of Mental Health (1-888-774-2489).
Missouri's entry into the legal sports betting arena offers its residents a secure, regulated environment with a wealth of options from industry-leading brands. From welcome bonuses and loyalty programmes to extensive live betting markets, the Show-Me State's sporting enthusiasts now have a legal framework to place their wagers.
