Copyright Athlon Sports
Get ready, Missouri. You’re about to join the party and dozens of other states with legal, online sports betting. Online sports betting in Missouri officially launches December 1, 2025, ushering in a new era for sports fans in the Show-Me State. After years of debate, voters approved legalization in 2024, and the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is finalizing operator licenses ahead of launch. It feels like there’s a Show-Me the money dad joke to be made here somewhere, too, but we’ll save it for another day. Major legal, national sportsbooks such as FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, Fanatics, bet365, and Underdog Sports are all preparing to go live. For new sports bettors in Missouri, early registration and launch-day promos could deliver them some of the sportsbooks’ highest bonus values. Below is your complete guide to Missouri sports betting — from laws and key dates to promo codes, top apps, and expert recommendations for maximizing launch-week bonuses. Missouri Sports Betting Overview When Missouri launches, residents and visitors aged 21 and older will be able to bet online or in person within state lines. The MGC will oversee both mobile sportsbooks and retail (brick and mortar, in-person sportsbook/casino facilities) partners located at Missouri casinos. Is Sports Betting Legal in Missouri? MO Sports Gambling Laws The short answer: Yes, starting December 1, 2025. Missouri voters approved legal sports betting in November 2024, paving the way for one of the Midwest’s most anticipated new markets. Under the framework established by the MGC, both online and retail wagering will be legal. Every sportsbook app must partner with a licensed casino or receive one of the state’s limited “untethered” online licenses. Bettors will need to be physically located in Missouri and 21 or older to place wagers. The Missouri Gaming Commission will regulate all sportsbooks, ensuring responsible gaming standards and fair-play compliance. Major operators — including FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, Fanatics, and Underdog — have already secured temporary operating licenses and are on track for the December 1 rollout. Missouri Sports Betting News Timeline October 22, 2025 – The MGC officially awarded temporary online sports betting licenses to BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, Fanatics, FanDuel, and Underdog Sports. Caesars, Fanatics, and ESPN BET also receive retail sportsbook approvals for their casino partners, confirming Missouri’s December 1 launch date. September 12, 2025 – The MGC releases its list of applicants, confirming that all major national operators are in line for approval. August 27, 2025 – Commissioners reaffirm Missouri’s launch timeline during the August session — no delays expected. August 15, 2025 – Circa Sports and DraftKings secure Missouri’s two untethered online sportsbook licenses, allowing independent statewide operation. FanDuel announces its St. Louis CITY SC partnership, marking its first Missouri team alliance. August 7, 2025 – ESPN BET unveils retail sportsbook plans for Argosy Riverside Casino, River City Casino, and Hollywood Casino St. Louis. May 15, 2025 – MGC sets December 1, 2025, as Missouri’s official launch date and opens the licensing window for operators and suppliers. November 5, 2024 – Missouri voters approve legalized sports betting in a statewide referendum. June 10, 2016 – Missouri legalizes daily fantasy sports, a foundational step toward full sports wagering. Top Sportsbook Apps Coming to Missouri & Their Welcome Offers Missouri bettors will have access to a wide range of national sports betting brands. It’s not a lock, but: Because new states often feature enhanced “launch-exclusive” bonuses, expect several offers to be boosted around December 1 as each sportsbook puts their best foot forward to welcome in new customers. As offers start to surface, we’ll be sure to share the best ones you should consider. How to Claim Sportsbook Promos in Missouri (Step-by-Step) Download the app of your preferred sportsbook using links on this page. Register an account while located in Missouri (name, email, date of birth, address, last four digits of SSN). The KYC (Know Your Customer) approach is generally a lot of information to fill out, but it’s like that in other states, too, and is for user – and operator – protection. Fund your account with a qualifying deposit once pre-launch banking opens. Place your first real-money wager after the market officially opens on December 1. Receive your welcome bonus (bonus bets, FanCash, or credits) within 24 hours, following the operator’s terms and conditions. Best Missouri Sportsbook Apps by Category Bettor’s Tip: It’s not uncommon for sports bettors to have more than one sports betting app, too. Don’t tell my wife, but there might be four or five on my phone in Michigan, which has been legal for a while. It’s for research, of course. We’ll get more into this in a bit. Best for Loyalty Perks – Fanatics Sportsbook Fanatics uniquely connects betting with its merchandise platform. Missouri bettors will earn FanCash on wagers, which can be redeemed for team gear or bonus bets. Best for Beginners – Caesars Sportsbook Caesars features an intuitive layout, simple signup, and easy-to-understand promos. It’s perfect for first-time Missouri bettors looking for a straightforward experience. Best for App Experience – FanDuel Sportsbook FanDuel’s interface remains the industry gold standard, featuring lightning-fast load times, intuitive bet-slip management, and seamless live betting. Best for Live Betting – DraftKings Sportsbook DraftKings dominates in in-play betting depth and instant odds updates, making it ideal for users who enjoy wagering during the action. Best for Market Depth – BetMGM Sportsbook BetMGM provides one of the widest selections of leagues and bet types — from NFL player props to international soccer and golf futures. Best Newcomer – ESPN BET With its deep sports media integration, ESPN BET stands out as Missouri’s most intriguing new platform, combining trusted ESPN analysis with betting functionality. Fanatics Missouri Sportsbook Overview: Fanatics is fully approved by the MGC for launch and will operate both online and via casino partnerships. Known nationally for its apparel empire, Fanatics merges e-commerce with betting in a way few competitors can match. App Experience: Rated 4.8 (iOS) and 4.5 (Android). Features include FanCash balance tracking, streamlined parlay builder, and same-game combo betting. In-play navigation is among the smoothest in the industry. Why Choose Fanatics: Perfect for Missouri bettors who also shop for sports gear and want ongoing rewards. DraftKings Missouri Sportsbook Overview: DraftKings secured one of Missouri’s untethered online licenses, allowing it to operate statewide. Already a household name from its daily fantasy roots, DraftKings combines familiarity with innovation. App Experience: App Store rating 4.8, Google Play 4.6. Sleek black-and-green design, live game trackers, and lightning-fast odds adjustments. Why Choose DraftKings: Ideal for seasoned bettors seeking fast markets, prop variety, and excellent live wagering. BetMGM Missouri Sportsbook Overview: Operating through MGM Resorts and local partners, BetMGM will bring its nationally recognized brand and proven reliability to Missouri’s market. App Experience: App Store 4.8, Google Play 4.5. Intuitive interface with Parlay Plus, Edit My Bet, and frequent odds boosts. Why Choose BetMGM: Best for bettors seeking deep market coverage, reliable app stability, and top-tier brand trust. Caesars Missouri Sportsbook Overview: Caesars has received full approval to launch mobile betting and operate retail books via its casino network. App Experience: Clean gold-and-white layout, strong live-odds display, and clear bet-tracking. Ratings average 4.7 iOS / 4.4 Android. Why Choose Caesars: Best for casual users who want a no-pressure, easy-to-use app and a steady stream of boosted promos. FanDuel Missouri Sportsbook Overview: FanDuel has long been the market leader nationwide and enters Missouri with a new partnership with St. Louis CITY SC, extending its local roots. App Experience: Highest-rated mobile app (4.9 iOS, 4.7 Android). Intuitive parlay builder, instant payouts on most markets, and strong live-stream integrations. Why Choose FanDuel: Best all-around sportsbook for app usability, reliability, and odds quality. ESPN BET Missouri Sportsbook Overview: Backed by ESPN’s sports media dominance, ESPN BET is approved for launch and will open physical locations in St. Louis and Kansas City. National Welcome Bonus: Bet $10, Get $100 in Bonus Bets. Deposit $10+, wager once, and bonus tokens credit automatically. App Experience: 4.7 average user rating. Standout integration with ESPN news and analytics, plus clean navigation and embedded video highlights. Why Choose ESPN BET: Best newcomer app for sports fans who already consume ESPN content daily. Why Sign Up for Multiple Missouri Sportsbooks Opening accounts with several sportsbooks maximizes bonus value and odds flexibility. Each operator offers unique perks — from Fanatics’ FanCash rewards to BetMGM’s Parlay Plus or DraftKings’ in-play betting depth. By holding multiple accounts, Missouri bettors can: Claim multiple welcome bonuses. Shop odds for better payouts. Access exclusive team or local promos. Enjoy a wider variety of markets and betting tools. Savvy sports bettors across legal states regularly use 3–5 sportsbook apps to ensure they’re always getting the most value. Responsible Sports Gambling Resources Sports betting is designed for entertainment, not income. Always wager responsibly and set limits that protect your bankroll and wellbeing. A good Golden Rule: If you cannot afford to lose the money, do not place the wager. For help or information, visit: American Gaming Association (AGA): www.americangaming.org/responsible-gaming National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): Call or text 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org/chat for 24/7 confidential help. Gamblers Anonymous: www.gamblersanonymous.org to locate support meetings near you. Missouri Sports Betting FAQ When will online sports betting launch in Missouri? December 1, 2025, as confirmed by the Missouri Gaming Commission. Which sportsbooks will be available at launch? BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, ESPN BET, Fanatics, bet365, Circa Sports, Bally Bet, and Underdog Sports are all expected. What is the legal age to bet? 21 years or older. Can I bet on college sports in Missouri? Yes. Both in-state and out-of-state college wagering will be permitted, including props with regulatory restrictions. Will Missouri have retail sportsbooks? Yes. Many Missouri casinos — including River City, Argosy, and Hollywood — plan to open retail books. Do I have to live in Missouri to bet? No, but you must be physically located within Missouri state lines to place bets. Can I use bonuses from multiple sportsbooks? Yes. Each licensed operator provides its own distinct welcome offer. Are daily fantasy sports legal in Missouri? Yes. DFS has been legal since 2016. Is it safe to bet with Missouri-licensed sportsbooks? Absolutely. The Missouri Gaming Commission will oversee all operators for security, fairness, and consumer protection. If you are one of the folks who have been betting through off-shore books, it’s time to break up with your bookie and use a legal, regulated U.S. operator.
