Missouri Set for a Landmark Moment as Sports Betting Goes Live

In November 2024, Missourians narrowly approved Amendment 2 that legalized sports betting. With a razor-thin margin, with 50.05% saying ‘Yes’, Missouri became the 39th state to allow sports betting. 

Now, operators and the general public are counting on the hours for the official launch of legal sports betting. Missouri casinos are preparing their sportsbooks, and state authorities are laying the groundwork ahead of the launch.

All 13 Missouri casinos will open their sportsbooks, and the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is working diligently to write the rules, approve licenses, and partner with local authorities.

Missouri Casinos Make a Final Push Ahead of Launch

According to Keith W. Henson, the senior vice president and general manager of Ameristar Casino Hotel in Kansas City, the launch is something that “they’ve been waiting for a long time”.

Ameristar is ramping up its preparations ahead of the launch. In an interview, a company representative shared that they’re converting a space into “a Fanatics Sportsbook”, with two betting windows, 10 TV monitors, 12 self-service kiosks, and one giant LED video wall. Bettors and guests will also find lounge chairs where they can relax. According to Henson, they’re looking to improve the overall gaming experience.

The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is equally hands-on. The regulator’s staff are working nights and weekends to write the state’s rules and process licenses, and has over 100 State Highway troopers at its disposal to manage the first day activities.

According to an MGC representative, they rely on reports from consumers of illegal activity. Once they receive a complaint, they record it, and some are passed on to the state’s Highway Patrol for investigation.

Underdog Is Officially Out of Missouri

Underdog, one of the biggest operators in sports wagering, will not be present when legalized sports gaming starts Monday. It was one of the most heavily advertised platforms ahead of Monday’s launch, but has since signalled its exit.

According to Mike Leara, Executive Director of the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC), Underdog plans to focus on predictive markets that aren’t regulated by states.

With Underdog out of the picture, that leaves eight licensed operators by MGC to accept bets starting December 1st.

Underdog hasn’t released an official statement about its withdrawal as of press time.

REFERENCES

• Amendment 2 Copy
• New York Times