Missouri's sports betting market officially launched at midnight on December 1, 2025, marking a historic moment for the Show-Me State and the broader U.S. sports betting industry. This launch makes Missouri the 39th state to legalize sports wagering since the Supreme Court struck down the federal ban in 2018.

The timing is significant. Missouri residents have spent years driving across state borders to Kansas and Illinois to place legal bets. Now, with Amendment 2 approved by voters in November 2024, that necessity has ended. Only individuals aged 21 and older who are physically located in Missouri can wager through MGC-licensed operators.

Eight major online sportsbooks launched simultaneously on December 1st. DraftKings and FanDuel are expected to capture the vast majority of market share, consistent with their dominance in other states. Other major players entering include BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, bet365, Fanatics Sportsbook, theScore Bet (formerly ESPN BET), and Circa Sports. Notably, Underdog withdrew its temporary license to focus on prediction markets instead, while PENN Entertainment ended its ESPN partnership, transitioning customers to theScore Bet.

The competitive landscape heated up with aggressive welcome bonuses. DraftKings and FanDuel both offered bet five dollars, get three hundred in bonus bets promotions. BetMGM provided up to fifteen hundred dollars in first-bet insurance. Caesars offered one hundred fifty dollars bonuses, while Fanatics presented thirty dollars wagered for three hundred in FanCash.

Retail operations also launched simultaneously, with eight land-based casinos partnering with sportsbooks and up to thirteen retail locations licensed, including sports venues offering window and kiosk betting.

Regulatory requirements include a ten percent tax on sports betting revenue directed toward education, problem gambling programs, and MGC operating costs. All operators must provide responsible gaming tools, including voluntary exclusion options and deposit limits.

The St. Louis Blues played the Anaheim Ducks on launch night, providing immediate wagering opportunities. Looking ahead, the College Football Playoff and regular-season games offer substantial betting volume. The licensing process, which took thirteen months instead of the originally planned six, reflects the regulatory complexity surrounding market entry. Missouri's launch demonstrates continuing momentum in the nationwide expansion of legal sports betting.

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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI