Missouri Gaming Commission Awards Untethered Online Sports Betting Licenses to DraftKings and Circa Sports

Circa Sports and DraftKings have been selected as the winners of Missouri's two untethered online sports betting licenses. As early leaders in the state's sports betting race, they will offer untethered online sports betting, giving them the freedom to operate independently of brick-and-mortar casinos. The licenses were awarded by the Missouri Gaming Commission, marking a significant step forward for the state's sports betting industry.

The Missouri Gaming Commission has awarded untethered online sports betting licenses to DraftKings and Circa Sports, marking a significant milestone in the state's sports betting landscape. The licenses, which allow operators to offer sports betting independently without partnering with brick-and-mortar casinos, were granted to DraftKings and Circa Sports following a competitive review process [1].

DraftKings, a leading player in the online sports betting industry, has been granted one of the two untethered licenses. The company has expressed its pleasure with the decision, highlighting its plans to bring its industry-leading online sportsbook to Missouri's fans. Matt Kalish, President of DraftKings North America, stated, "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" [1].

Circa Sports, a Las Vegas-based operator known for its sharp odds and high betting limits, was awarded the second untethered license. Derek Stevens, CEO of Circa Sports, expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that the company's focus on bettor-friendly features and community engagement was key to its success. Stevens stated, "Winning one of Missouri’s first two untethered mobile betting licenses is a great honor... We didn’t win by trying to be the biggest. We won by staying true to who we are" [3].

The untethered licenses allow DraftKings and Circa Sports to operate independently, keeping 100% of their revenue after paying a 10% state tax on adjusted gross revenue. This model differs from tethered licenses, which require revenue-sharing with a casino or professional sports team partner [1]. The Missouri Gaming Commission evaluated applicants based on criteria such as expertise in online sports betting, platform integrity, and past operating experience [1].

FanDuel, a major player in the sports betting industry, was not awarded an untethered license. The company is expected to pursue Missouri access through a tethered license with a casino or professional sports team partner [1]. The deadline for tethered applicants is September 12, 2025, ensuring a competitive market with multiple platforms and promotional offers available to bettors [1].

The untethered licenses awarded to DraftKings and Circa Sports position Missouri as a key player in the expanding U.S. sports betting market. The state is set to launch sports betting on December 1, 2025, providing bettors with a variety of options and promotions [1].

References:
[1] https://sportshandle.com/draftkings-and-circa-awarded-missouris-untethered-licenses/
[2] https://abc17news.com/news/top-stories/2025/08/15/gaming-regulators-to-approve-online-sports-betting-licenses-friday-morning/
[3] https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/politics/missouri-draftkings-circa-sports-untethered-mobile-sports-gambling-licenses/63-ef18a29c-0020-4bc3-bf52-b5e08c46b89c
[4] https://www.saturdaydownsouth.com/news/betting/circa-sports-draftkings-missouri-sports-betting-licenses/