Missouri opens sports betting license bidding, including two for online-only operators

The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) has officially opened the application process for sports betting licenses, marking a notable step toward launching legalized sports wagering in the state following a narrowly approved constitutional amendment.

Missouri voters approved Amendment 2 during the November 2024 election by a margin of fewer than 3,000 votes. The measure amended the state constitution to permit both retail and online sports betting for individuals aged 21 and older. The change allows betting on professional and college sports, making Missouri the latest state to join the expanding U.S. sports wagering market.

The bidding window for two fully online sportsbook licenses opened today. Interested operators must submit applications by July 15, 2025. According to the MGC, license hearings will take place on August 13, with the final awards set to be announced on August 15.

Applications for all other retail and mobile sportsbook licenses are due by September 12, with successful applicants set to receive their permits beginning December 1.

Although the MGC did not initially confirm a launch date for legal betting activity, several sources including Missouri Gaming Commission Chairwoman Peggy Richardson have since stated that the official go-live date for sports betting in Missouri will be December 1, 2025.

Under the new framework, each of Missouri’s 13 state-licensed casinos is eligible to apply for both retail and mobile sportsbook licenses. The cost for a physical sportsbook license is set at $250,000, while mobile licenses will cost $500,000. The state will impose a 10% tax on sportsbook gross revenues, with proceeds earmarked for K–12 public education.

The first $5 million in annual tax revenue will be allocated to the Missouri Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund. Among those expected to participate in the bidding process is Caesars Entertainment, which operates three casinos in the state: Harrah’s North Kansas City, Horseshoe St. Louis, and Isle of Capri Boonville.

Caesars was a vocal opponent of Amendment 2, spending nearly $14 million in an effort to block its passage due to concerns over the provision allowing two fully remote sportsbooks to operate without any brick-and-mortar presence in Missouri.

Despite its earlier opposition, Caesars is now anticipated to compete for one of the coveted online-only licenses through its Caesars Sportsbook brand, potentially to limit competition in the mobile space.