CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Century Casinos has announced a partnership with BetMGM to bring both online and in person sports betting to the state.
The companies say mobile sports betting could launch as early as Dec. 1, pending final approval from the Missouri Gaming Commission. The agreement would allow Missouri residents aged 21 and older to place wagers through BetMGM’s digital platform, wherever they may be within the state.
“We’re very excited about that partnership,” said Lyle Randolph, general manager and vice president of operations at Century Casino in Cape Girardeau. “The casinos entered into a partnership with BetMGM for the launch of a mobile sports betting application that will be here in Missouri effective December 1, 2025, pending Missouri gaming licensure.”
The move could provide a boost to Missouri’s economy. Partly by allowing those who cross the bridge into Illinois to place a bet then returning to Missouri to remain in Missouri to place a bet.
“I think you probably have a situation now where people are crossing over the river into Illinois to place wagers,” Randolph said. “Now, they can do that beginning in December here in Missouri. And those tax dollars will stay within the state.”
Randolph says that BetMGM’s technology and user experience were key reasons for the partnership, explaining that Century would not have pursued a platform of this caliber on its own.
In addition to mobile betting, Century Casinos is also exploring the development of a retail sportsbook at its Cape Girardeau location.
“We’re currently in discussions about a retail location,” Randolph said. “We’re very excited about the potential development of something that really drives traffic to this location.”
The announcement comes as more states turn to legalized sports betting as a source of tax revenue, particularly during high attraction sporting events like the Super Bowl, March Madness, and more. Century Casinos hopes to capitalize on that momentum to attract new customers to add to local engagement.
Addressing concerns some may have surrounding gambling addiction, Randolph said all betting through the BetMGM platform will be regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission, with a strong importance on responsible gaming.
“We will have the same processes in place that are here in the casino,” he said. “If someone does have an issue, there are resources available. We want it to be a source of entertainment, not a problem.”
If approved, Missouri would join the growing number of U.S. states offering legalized sports betting within the state.
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