Online Sports Betting in Missouri Postponed to December 2025

by Amelia Walker, May 19, 2025

According to the latest news from the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC), the much-anticipated launch of the first legal sportsbooks is officially postponed to December 1st, 2025.

What Led to the Delay?

This is not the first delay reported by the gambling regulator in the state. In fact, online sports betting was initially set for a summer launch on June 30th, 2025. Late last week, the MGC confirmed we can expect the first sportsbooks to become available on December 1st, 2025.

“August 30th is the date for the licensing rules to become effective; but after that, there is still a process for review and background of applicants before licenses can be issued and sports wagering can go live…The launch date will be Dec. 1st.” – said a spokesperson of the Missouri Gaming Commission.

The delay is due to legislative hurdles and regulatory preparations that need more time for proper establishment. Back in February, the Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins rejected the emergency rules needed for an earlier launch, stating that, under the law, the situation doesn’t meet the criteria for emergency rule making.

Hoskins’ decision gives the MGC and the state more time to carefully consider consumer protections, the allocation of tax revenues, and the potential social impacts of sports betting. The aim is to ensure a comprehensive and well-regulated gambling environment that aligns with state laws and public interest.

Which Sportsbook Could Missouri Bettors Expect?

Several well-known brands have already expressed their desire to enter the Missouri sports betting market. This includes sportsbooks like ESPN Bet, FanDuel, and BetMGM. In March, bet365 announced its marketing partnership with the St Louis Cardinals, securing its place among the legal betting apps once the sector goes live in December.

According to the legislation, up to 21 brands would have the chance to obtain a license and establish their operations in the state. This includes the brick-and-mortar casinos in Missouri, professional sports teams, and two stand-alone mobile licenses for operators without physical presence in the Show Me State.

What About Online Casinos in Missouri?

After Missouri voters approved digital sports betting, a natural question arises – are online casinos going to be next? Well, there have been no signs of this happening anytime soon. Considering how long it took for sports betting to get legalized, we also can’t make any such prognosis.

Moreover, a potential push for the legalization of online casinos will probably face significant resistance from retail gambling venues in the state. For now, the focus remains on the Missouri sports betting sector and its upcoming launch on December 1st, 2025. We’ll keep you posted on any future developments.