The Missouri Gaming Commission awarded the first two licenses for its state’s upcoming sports betting market.
Regulators gave the two untethered licenses to DraftKings and Circa Sports. As a result, neither online sports betting operator needs a Missouri land-based partner for market access. The state’s professional sports franchises and brick-and-mortar casinos are eligible for licenses and thus, can partner with online operators.
“The Commission considered many factors before the two applicants were chosen,” said MGC chairman Jay Zimmerman in a press release. “It was a difficult decision, but the Commission is only able to grant two licenses.”
The MGC chose the two untethered licensees based on the following criteria:
- Expertise in online sports betting
- Platform integrity, safety and sustainability
- Past operating experience
- Advertising and promotional plans
- Ability to generate and sustain state revenue
- Commitment to responsible gaming
- Capacity to increase the number of bettors on the platform
Voters approved legal sports betting through a ballot measure last November. The law allows for up to 21 sports betting licenses. In addition to the two untethered licensees, operators can gain access through partnerships with one of the six pro sports franchises or the 13 riverboat casinos.
FanDuel Left Out, Partners With MLS Team
Along with DraftKings and Circa, FanDuel was vying for an untethered license, but ended up the odd man out. Consequently, the company quickly pivoted to a tethered entrance and announced a market access partnership with St. Louis City SC, the state’s Major League Soccer franchise.
While it’s not official yet, the partnership nearly guarantees FanDuel a Missouri license. Thus, FanDuel officials are excited to launch in its 25th U.S. jurisdiction.
“Missouri is home to some of the most passionate sports fans in the country, and we are thrilled to partner with St. Louis City SC to introduce our industry-leading product to the Show Me State,” said Mike Raffensperfer, president of sports at FanDuel. “We look forward to supporting the team and engaging with the community as we bring America’s No. 1 sportsbook to fans across Missouri.”
Earlier this year, the commission hoped to fast-track the launch date. However, Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins squashed those efforts by rejecting an appeal for emergency rulemaking.
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