The Missouri Gaming Commission has just announced the launch of sports betting in the state, and it is scheduled for the 1st of December, 2025. All sports betting operators interested in getting a license must submit their applications by the 12th of September, and the Commission is allowed to process as much as 19 licenses for retail sports betting and up to 14 licenses for online sports betting.

The Missouri Gaming Commission has officially opened its long-anticipated application window for sports betting licenses, marking a major milestone in the state's journey toward launching legal sports wagering. While the door is now open for operators to enter the market, the Commission confirmed that betting in the Show-Me State won't begin before the constitutionally mandated deadline of December 1, 2025.

Application window opens for sports betting operators

Starting last week, sports betting operators can submit applications for both retail and online licenses. The Missouri Gaming Commission will accept applications through the 12th of September, 2025. Under the current regulatory framework, the state can issue as many as 19 sports betting licenses for retail operators and as many as 14 sports betting licenses for online platforms.

These licenses will be divided between operators with existing partnerships - such as those tied to Missouri's 13 casinos or six professional sports franchises - and those seeking direct market access through untethered licenses.

Chairman confirms December 1 launch date

Chairman Jan M. Zimmerman of the Missouri Gaming Commission confirmed that due to the volume of regulatory work remaining, the earliest possible launch date remains December 1. "It's our responsibility to make sure everything is done right," Zimmerman said. "We would never want to skip due diligence. As disappointing as it may be for some folks that it won't be until Dec. 1, we're going to make sure it's done right."

Zimmerman emphasized that the Commission still needs time to conduct background checks, finalize testing requirements, and carry out other regulatory processes to ensure a secure and transparent launch.

Official licensing timeline released

To provide clarity on the rollout process, the Commission also released a detailed timeline for sports betting licensure:

  • May 15: The period of licensing application opens
  • July 15: Deadline for untethered online sports betting license applications
  • August 13: Public presentations by untethered license applicants
  • August 15: Commission selects two untethered online license holders
  • September 12: Deadline for all other license applications
  • December 1: Official launch of legal sports betting in Missouri

Delays stemming from rejected emergency rules

Missouri initially hoped for an earlier launch, potentially as early as summer 2025. However, that timeline was derailed when Secretary of State Denny Hoskins declined proposed emergency regulations submitted by the Commission earlier this year.

Hoskins cited that the situation did not meet the statutory requirements for emergency rulemaking. "The emergency rulemaking process is reserved for situations that require immediate actions," he said. "After careful review, we determined that the situation does not meet these urgent criteria."

As a result, the Commission had to proceed through the standard rulemaking process, pushing the entire schedule back by several months.

Market access: partnerships taking shape

Missouri sports betting operators will need to either secure an untethered license or form a partnership with a local casino or sports franchise. Only two online operators will be granted untethered access; these will be announced on August 15 and launch alongside other licensees on December 1.

Several partnerships are already in the works. bet365 announced a multi-year partnership with the St. Louis Cardinals earlier this year, granting it access to Missouri's sports betting market. Underdog Fantasy has confirmed its intent to apply, and if approved, would hold licenses in four US states.

BetMGM also intends to pursue licensure, although its path to market remains unclear. While the operator has an existing relationship with the Kansas City Chiefs, no formal partnership has been announced.

DraftKings and FanDuel, two of the biggest names in US sports betting, are also expected to apply. Both companies contributed significantly to the campaign that led to the successful 2024 sports betting referendum in Missouri.

With the application window now open and regulatory processes underway, Missouri's journey toward launching sports betting is entering its final stretch. While the road has included setbacks, the Commission remains focused on meeting its constitutional obligations and ensuring a smooth, secure rollout for operators and bettors alike.