Missouri's Gaming Authorities Set December 1 as Official Date for Sports Betting Debut
Teardown of Missouri Sports Betting Timeline
Get ready to place your bets, Missouri! The state has officailly opened its licensing process for sports betting operators, but it looks like we're in for a bit of a wait.
The Lowdown on Missouri Sports Betting
The Missouri Gaming Commission is now accepting applications for sports betting licenses, with a deadline set for September 12, 2025. However, don't count on placing your bets before December 1, 2025 – at least not according to the Missouri Gaming Commission's chairman.
Missouri Sports Betting Timeline
Here's a breakdown of the key dates you need to know:
- May 15: Application period officially opens
- July 15: Deadline for direct (untethered) online sports betting license applications
- Aug. 13: Applicants for direct online sports betting licenses may appear before Missouri Gaming Commission
- Aug. 15: Missouri Gaming Commission announces chosen direct online sports betting license applicants
- Sept. 12: Deadline for all other partnered retail and online sports betting license applications
- Dec. 1: Launch day for Missouri sports betting
Why the Delay, You Ask?
Missouri Gaming Commission Chairman Jan M. Zimmerman puts it simply: they're going to do things right, even if it takes a little longer. In an interview with Sports Betting Dime, Zimmerman emphasized the importance of carefully vetting all applicants and following the rules to the letter.
Note: Sports Betting Dime is a leading online news source covering the sports betting industry[4].
Missouri Sports Betting Rules and Regulations
One of the hurdles faced by the Missouri Gaming Commission was the rejection of their proposed emergency rules and regulations by Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins[1]. However, Hoskins has committed to working with stakeholders to ensure a transparent and thorough process for updating Missouri's gaming regulations[1].
Partnerships Galore
Sports betting operators can access the Missouri market via untethered licenses or by partnering with one of the state's sports franchises or brick-and-mortar casinos[3]. Only two license holders can enter the market without a partnership, and they'll be announced on August 15[3]. The remaining retail and online sports betting license holders must form partnerships to enter the market.
Some major players, such as bet365, Underdog Fantasy, BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel, have expressed interest in pursuing Missouri sports betting licenses[3].
Sources:1. Missouri Gaming Commission Rulemaking Process2. Missouri Legalizes Sports Betting through Constitutional Amendment3. Major Sports Betting Operators Eye Missouri Market4. Sports Betting Dime
- Despite the excitement surrounding Missouri sports betting, individuals should be prepared for a wait, as the launch day is scheduled for December 1, 2025.
- Various sports betting operators, such as bet365, Underdog Fantasy, BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel, have shown interest in securing Missouri sports betting licenses.
- Sports betting stakeholders, including the Missouri Gaming Commission, are meticulous in vetting all applicants and following regulations to ensure a fair and transparent process.
