BetMGM joins forces with Century to acquire a sports betting license in Missouri
May 27, 2025 - Century Casinos, a gaming operator in Missouri, announced a long-term agreement with BetMGM on Tuesday. Under the terms of the partnership, Century will grant BetMGM a license for online and mobile sports betting services in the state ahead of the market's official launch on December 1.
Beginning on December 1, BetMGM will operate using one of Century's online sports wagering skins, with financial terms undisclosed. Century will receive a percentage of BetMGM's net gaming revenue, complete with a guaranteed minimum amount, as well as the option to operate a retail sportsbook at its discretion. The agreement is contingent on obtaining necessary gaming licenses and regulatory approvals.
Century Casinos runs two venues in Missouri, with its Cape Girardeau location being part of assets it acquired from Eldorado Resorts. Having previously entered into agreements with Rush Street Interactive and William Hill for online casinos in West Virginia, as well as Circa Sports in Colorado, Century demonstrates a history of partnering with sportsbook operators in various states.
For BetMGM, this partnership is advantageous as MGM Resorts International, which co-owns BetMGM, does not have a land-based casino in Missouri. Missouri's sports betting regulations necessitate such arrangements for operators without physical locations. The Show Me State plans to award 14 online sports betting permits, with six going to in-state casino operators, and it is expected that FanDuel and DraftKings will receive two of the remaining free-floating licenses.
As stated by Century co-CEO Peter Hoetzinger during the company's first-quarter earnings call, sports betting partnerships in Missouri can deliver high-margin earnings to the properties. Such deals serve to expand Century's entertainment offerings while benefiting the company financially, and securing market access for BetMGM ahead of the Missouri sports betting market launch.
Under the agreement, Century Casinos will provide BetMGM with a license for sports betting services in Missouri, allowing them to operate in the state from December 1. This partnership is strategic for both parties, as Century expands its entertainment offerings while securing market access for BetMGM, especially since MGM Resorts International does not have a land-based casino in Missouri. Regional news outlets may report on the midwest sports betting market, highlighting this agreement as an example of the growing trend of sports betting collaborations across the United States.
