DraftKings, Circa Hospitality awarded sports betting licenses in Missouri

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - The Missouri Gaming Commission awarded sports wagering licenses to DraftKings and Circa Hospitality on Friday as the state moves toward launching legalized sports betting in December.

DraftKings, Circa Hospitality and FanDuel all competed for two available untethered sports betting licenses in the state.

The license allows companies to operate online sportsbooks in Missouri without partnering with a casino or professional sports team, and it also allows Missourians to place sports bets on their phones once wagering goes live.

Last year, Missouri voters narrowly approved Amendment 2 to legalize sports wagering in the state. The law calls for sports betting to launch in Missouri by December 1, 2025. Many procedural elements, including licensing, are still being finalized.

DraftKings long backed Missouri’s push to legalize sports gambling, contributing $43 million along with FanDuel to campaign in support of Amendment 2, according to Fortune.com. DraftKings has become well-known for offering daily fantasy sports betting.

Circa Hospitality, the Las Vegas-based parent company of Circa Sports, presents a more unique option that focuses on high-limit betting and personalized betting experiences.

The Missouri Commission’s decision to award licenses were based on several factors, including, expertise in online sports betting, platform integrity and safety and revenue generation potential, among other things.

Following the decision, the Missouri Gaming Commission and three companies competing for the two licenses sent FOX2 the following statements.

DraftKings (Matt Kalish, President, DraftKings North America): “We’re pleased to secure one of two direct mobile licenses in Missouri — paving the way for us to bring DraftKings’ industry-leading online sportsbook to fans across the state. Missouri is home to several professional teams and deeply passionate fanbases, and we look forward to enhancing their sports experience with a dynamic and responsible mobile platform.”

Circa Sports (Derek Stevens, CIrca Sports CEO): "Winning one of Missouri’s first two untethered mobile betting licenses is a great honor. We came in as the long shot against national giants like DraftKings and FanDuel, but our licensure approval today proves there’s room for a different kind of operator. Circa Sports is built for bettors, with sharp odds, high limits and a low hold. We’ve already connected with 81,000 Missourians through our Club One loyalty program, and we’re ready to be an active part of the community, from local events to supporting youth sports. We didn’t win by trying to be the biggest. We won by staying true to who we are, and I want to thank the Missouri Gaming Commission for recognizing that and giving us the opportunity to bring the Circa Sports experience to the State of Missouri. We can’t wait to get started."

FanDuel (Fanduel Spokesperson): “We appreciated the opportunity to present to the Missouri Gaming Commission and respect their decision. We look forward to bringing our leading sportsbook product to Missouri residents."

Missouri Gaming Commission (Chairman Jan Zimmerman): "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."