Missouri is poised to join the legal sports betting landscape as the Show-Me State prepares for its official launch on Monday, December 1, 2025. This landmark development will see Missouri become the 39th state to legalise sports wagering, following voter approval of Amendment 2 in November 2024.
Missouri Sports Betting Operators and Pre-Registration
Eight major sportsbooks have received temporary licenses to operate in Missouri, with pre-registration having opened on November 17. Bettors aged 21 and over can currently download apps, create accounts and deposit funds, though actual wagering won't commence until the December 1 launch date.
The licensed operators include DraftKings, Circa, Bet365, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, theScore Bet, Fanatics Sportsbook and FanDuel. Originally, nine operators were expected to launch, but Underdog Sports unexpectedly returned its license just over a week before the scheduled start date.
Many of the remaining sportsbooks have already rolled out pre-launch promotions for Missouri bettors, offering various incentives to attract early registrants ahead of the official go-live date.
Background and Regulatory Journey
Missouri's path to legal sports betting has been slower than many neighbouring states. While the federal ban on sports betting outside Nevada was overturned in 2018, Missouri only approved sports wagering in November 2024 when Amendment 2 narrowly passed.
Pressure from professional sports teams and major gambling operators highlighted Missouri as a significant missed opportunity, especially after neighbouring Kansas legalised betting in 2022. Extensive lobbying efforts ultimately helped push the measure across the finish line with voters.
The Missouri Gaming Commission initially sought emergency approval to fast-track regulations in time for March Madness 2025, but Secretary of State Denny Hoskins rejected the request, stating the situation didn't meet criteria for emergency rulemaking.
Key Sportsbook Features and Comparisons
Missouri bettors will have access to a diverse range of sportsbooks, each with unique strengths and specialities. DraftKings, operating with one of only two untethered licenses in the state, excels in parlay betting with its Quick Parlay feature and Dynasty Rewards programme.
Bet365 brings international expertise and industry-leading live betting capabilities, along with partnerships with the St. Louis Cardinals. Their early payout feature on multiple sports provides added security for bettors.
BetMGM stands out with its integrated MGM Rewards programme, allowing users to redeem points for real-world benefits like hotel stays and dining credits. Their Lion's Boost feature offers daily odds enhancements on selected events.
Caesars Sportsbook leverages its established casino presence in Missouri through partnerships with Harrah's locations, while Fanatics Sportsbook introduces its unique FanCash system that provides cashback on every wager.
FanDuel, known for its superior mobile app experience, offers competitive odds and extensive same-game parlay options through its partnership with MLS side St. Louis City SC.
Legal Framework and Responsible Gambling
Missouri has established comprehensive regulations for sports betting, including a legal betting age of 21 and a 10% tax on sports betting revenue – below the national average of 19%. Bettors must be physically located within Missouri borders to place wagers, verified through geolocation technology.
There are no residency requirements, meaning visitors aged 21 and over can bet while in the state. Regulations regarding college sports betting remain somewhat unclear, though betting on high school sports is strictly prohibited.
All licensed operators will provide responsible gambling tools including deposit limits, time limits, reality checks, self-exclusion options and cooling-off periods. The Missouri Gaming Commission maintains a self-exclusion list, and several support services are available for those needing assistance with gambling addiction.
Sports Betting Markets and Local Teams
Missouri boasts several championship-calibre professional sports teams that will drive significant betting interest. The three-time Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs, partnered with BetMGM, will provide immediate betting opportunities when they face the Houston Texans on December 7.
Baseball fans can wager on both the Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals, while hockey enthusiasts can back the St. Louis Blues. Soccer betting will feature three professional teams: Sporting KC, St. Louis City FC and the Kansas City Current.
Popular betting markets will include moneylines, point spreads, totals, parlays, futures, prop bets and live betting. The timing of Missouri's launch positions it perfectly for peak NFL season and upcoming college bowl games.
As Missouri prepares for its December 1 launch, bettors have the opportunity to compare operator strengths, welcome bonuses and unique features to determine which sportsbooks best align with their preferences and betting styles.
