Sports Operator Circa Wins Significant Victory in Missouri Prior to December Debut
In an unexpected turn of events, the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) has awarded an untethered sportsbook license to Circa Sports, snubbing the much larger and well-known FanDuel Sportsbook. The decision, which came on August 15, 2025, marks a significant milestone for Circa Sports as they join DraftKings as the only two operators to receive direct mobile sports betting licenses in the state.
These untethered licenses allow sportsbook operations to function independently, without the need for partnerships with casinos or sports teams, unlike the tethered licenses. This newfound freedom will enable Circa Sports to launch its sportsbook in Missouri starting December 1, 2025.
The MGC's selection process favored Circa and DraftKings, leaving FanDuel out of the untethered license slots. While the specific reasons for this decision remain undisclosed, it's believed that factors such as business model, proposed betting products, regulatory fit, or other considerations may have played a role in Circa being chosen over the larger brand.
Michael Savio, a writer from Denver who covers the sports betting industry for Casino.com, has been following the developments closely. When he's not reporting on the industry or placing bets on sports, he enjoys exploring Colorado.
Circa Sports, known for its reputation as a top destination for high rollers, has demonstrated that it can meet the MGC's criteria or offer a competitive application that outshines its competitors. This move could signal a shift in the sports betting market in Missouri, with smaller, more niche operators gaining ground against established brands.
[1] Missouri Gaming Commission Press Release
[2] FanDuel Response to Missouri Gaming Commission Decision
[3] Circa Sports Announces Missouri Sportsbook Launch
[4] Missouri Sports Betting Timeline
[5] Missouri Sports Betting Law
- The high roller-focused Circa Sports, having demonstrated an ability to meet the Missouri Gaming Commission's criteria or offer a competitive application, could signal a shift in the sports betting market in Missouri, with smaller, more niche operators gaining ground against established brands.
- Despite being a much larger and well-known sports betting brand, FanDuel has been left out of the untethered license slots in Missouri, a decision that favored Circa Sports and DraftKings, signifying a potential trend for leaning towards more unique business models and betting products in the sports-betting industry.
