The state of Missouri has opened up its market by granting two mobile sports betting licences but players are prohibited from betting just yet.
Both DraftKings and Circa Sports were granted access from the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) in what were the only two available untethered licences.
More could well be awarded with all retail and mobile licenses as applications must be submitted by September 12, 2025.
However, the catch is that players won’t be able to bet until December 1.
The chairman of the MGC, Jan Zimmerman, said that it was a difficult decision to allow the two operators in at this time.
“The Commission considered many factors before the two applicants were chosen. We commend Betfair Interactive US, LLC for its efforts. It was a difficult decision, but the Commission is only able to grant two licenses.”
Zimmerman added that there will be opportunities for more sportsbooks to be granted access from mid-October.
FanDuel seeks alternative entry
FanDuel, despite being knocked back by the Commission, have since acquired their Plan B by securing a market access agreement with MLS football club St. Louis CITY SC.
This comes ahead of Missouri’s launch of online sports wagering in December and the deal will provide FanDuel with access to 25 regulated US gaming markets.
The financial ramifications of losing out to the underdogs Circa means that they have to pay $250,000 for the access but they are tied into revenue-sharing requirements with St. Louis City SC through a percentage of gaming revenue or annual guaranteed payments.
Plus, there’s also market access agreements that may also include exclusivity fees, sponsorship fees and actual launch fees that will warrant a considerable amount.
