Missouri officially opened its sports wagering market just after midnight, allowing eligible residents and visitors to begin placing bets online and at approved retail locations. The launch followed months of licensing work, system testing, and preparation by operators and regulators, culminating in the state becoming the 39th jurisdiction in the country to authorize legal sports betting.

Operators Enter the Market and What They Offer

Eight online operators made their debut at 12:01 a.m. CT. The initial group includes DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, bet365, Fanatics Sportsbook, Circa Sports, and theScore Bet, which replaces ESPN BET following the end of PENN Entertainment’s partnership with the brand on December 1.

Most of these operators have entered with sign-up promotions aimed at first-time customers. BetMGM offers up to $1,500 returned in bonus bets if the opening wager loses, while FanDuel provides a “bet $5, get $300 in bonus bets” deal. Fanatics gives newcomers a “bet $30, get $300 in FanCash” offer. Caesars features a “bet $5, get $150” promotion and a separate Super Bowl-themed sweepstakes. DraftKings markets its own “bet $5, get $300 in bonus bets instantly,” along with access to its daily profit boosts and wide menu of betting markets.

Customers who previously held accounts with these operators in other states can simply log in, as existing wallet and personal settings transfer automatically. However, these returning users are not eligible for sign-up bonuses. Anyone registering for the first time must be at least 21 years old and provide a Social Security number.

Alongside online betting, Missouri authorized up to 13 retail locations, with eight casinos already partnered with sportsbooks. Not every retail venue is operational yet, but window and kiosk wagering is permitted once each site completes its launch procedures.

Long Road to Implementation and Market Structure

Sports betting in Missouri became possible after voters approved Amendment 2 in November 2024. State officials originally aimed for a June 2025 launch, though licensing reviews extended the timeline by several months. During this process, seven operators secured temporary approvals from the Missouri Gaming Commission, enabling them to begin system testing in October 2025.

DraftKings and Circa Sports received untethered mobile licenses, giving them permission to operate without casino partnerships. Circa’s approval came earlier than expected and allowed the brand to join the initial launch group.

Missouri’s regulatory structure allows the state’s six major professional sports teams to operate on-site sportsbooks and manage advertising within a 400-yard radius of their venues. These teams collectively contributed $2 million to the broader effort to secure legalization during the $43 million ballot campaign. Several have already announced partnerships with national betting brands to support their sportsbook operations.

The tax rate on sports betting revenue is set at 10 percent, lower than the national average. At least $5 million annually will go toward programs supporting problem gambling services, with the remainder directed to educational funding across primary, secondary, and higher-education institutions.

Market Debut Activities and Responsible Gambling Features

The transition to legal betting prompted several operators to organize launch-day events. DraftKings welcomed appearances by Tony Gonzalez, Isaac Bruce, and Brett Hull, who placed ceremonial online wagers in St. Louis. The company also pledged $50,000 to the Veterans Community Project to assist with transitional housing efforts for former service members.

FanDuel marked the occasion with two $300,000 donations: one to Guns ‘N Hoses, benefiting first responders’ families, and another to the Veterans Community Project. Fanatics Sportsbook held opening ceremonies at Ameristar locations, with retired athletes Alex Gordon and Patrick Maroon placing ceremonial first bets. Caesars hosted similar events with former Kansas City Chiefs players Christian Okoye and Trent Green, the latter participating in multiple appearances throughout the day.

Consumers now have access to bets across major sports, including NFL Week 13, NBA and NHL games, and various futures markets. The St. Louis Blues’ matchup with the Anaheim Ducks became the first in-state game available for wagering on launch night.

In line with regulatory requirements, each operator must display responsible gambling tools on its website and apps, according to Covers. Customers can set deposit or wagering limits, choose voluntary exclusion options, and access support resources mandated by the Missouri Gaming Commission.

The market is projected to handle more than $4 billion in wagers annually, with operator revenue expected to exceed $500 million and generate over $50 million in tax revenue for the state.