Only two genuinely new licensed sportsbooks have launched in the past 2 years: theScore Bet (December 2025) and Fanatics Sportsbook (August 2023). Missouri’s December 1, 2025 launch brought 14+ established operators to the state, where all are “new” to Missouri residents.
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- First-time bettor: Start with FanDuel (4.9/5 stars, proven since 2018) or BetMGM (MGM Rewards)
- Closed account at major sites: Try theScore Bet or Fanatics first, then BetMGM as alternative
- Want genuinely new platform: theScore Bet (2023 launch) or Fanatics (2023 launch, FanCash rewards)
Most operators launching in Missouri December 1st have operated in other states since 2018. They’re “new” to Missouri residents, but these are proven platforms with 7+ years of reliability, not experimental new technology.
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New betting sites launched in 2023-2026 include theScore Bet (December 2025) and Fanatics Sportsbook (August 2023), the only 2 major licensed brands to enter the US market in the past 2 years. No new brands have launched in 2026, making this a consolidation period for the sports betting industry. However, Missouri’s December 1, 2025 launch represented the year’s biggest “new” betting opportunity, with FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, and 12+ other operators going live simultaneously.
While these operators launching in Missouri aren’t newly created companies, most have operated in other states since 2018. Missouri residents can claim welcome bonuses from each operator as new users. This means access to proven, battle-tested platforms rather than experimental new technology.
We’ve analyzed 20+ licensed sportsbooks to identify the best options, whether you’re looking for genuinely new platforms or proven alternatives launching in new states.
The Reality About New Betting Sites
New Betting Sites Launched 2023-2026
If you’re searching for “new betting sites,” here’s what you need to know. Only 2 major licensed sportsbook brands have launched in the past 2 years: theScore Bet (November 2023) and Fanatics Sportsbook (August 2023). No new major brands have received US licenses in 2024-2026, making this a consolidation period rather than an expansion phase in the sports betting industry.
However, “new” in sports betting often means “new to your state” rather than newly created platforms. Missouri’s December 1, 2025 launch was the biggest opportunity in 2024-2026, but it’s important to understand that FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, and Caesars have been operating in other states since 2018. They’re “new” to Missouri in that residents can claim welcome bonuses, but these are proven, established platforms, not experimental new companies.
This is actually good news. You’re getting access to battle-tested sportsbooks with 7+ years of proven reliability, rather than truly “new” untested platforms. Below, we cover the only 2 genuinely new brands, Missouri’s launch details, and strategic guidance on which established operators are worth trying.
theScore Bet
theScore Bet launched November 14, 2023 as a rebrand of Barstool Sportsbook. The platform leverages theScore’s sports media presence with integrated content and streaming capabilities. The site is currently available in 17 states with expansion plans.
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Seamless connection with theScore content and live streaming
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Built on updated technology with mobile-first design
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4.2/5 stars app rating (fewer reviews than established sites)
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17 states and growing availability across legal markets
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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theScore brand recognition and content integration provides unique value for sports media consumers |
Only 2 years operating history versus 7+ for FanDuel/BetMGM |
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Modern app interface built on updated technology stack |
Fewer states than established leaders (17 vs 22-23) |
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Growing state availability with aggressive expansion plans |
Withdrawal speeds still being proven at scale with limited user feedback |
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May have different risk tolerance than operators who closed your account |
Smaller user base means fewer app reviews and ratings |
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Customer service still building expertise compared to 7-year veterans |
theScore brand recognition and content integration provides unique value for sports media consumers
Modern app interface built on updated technology stack
Growing state availability with aggressive expansion plans
May have different risk tolerance than operators who closed your account
Only 2 years operating history versus 7+ for FanDuel/BetMGM
Fewer states than established leaders (17 vs 22-23)
Withdrawal speeds still being proven at scale with limited user feedback
Smaller user base means fewer app reviews and ratings
Customer service still building expertise compared to 7-year veterans
Best for: theScore fans who value content integration, bettors whose accounts were closed at major sites, or users in states where it’s 1 of few options available.
Fanatics Sportsbook
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Gambling problem? Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER
Fanatics Sportsbook launched August 2023 after acquiring PointsBet’s US operations. Backed by the major sports merchandise retailer, this mobile-only platform offers a unique FanCash rewards system for earning team gear. The site is expanding state by state. Check out our Fanatics sportsbook review that covers the full FanCash earning structure.
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Earn FanCash credits redeemable for Fanatics merchandise and team gear
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No desktop website – optimized entirely for smartphone betting
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4.1/5 stars app rating (building user base)
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Multiple states with expanding availability
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Unique FanCash rewards system creates value for sports fans who regularly buy team merchandise |
Only 2+ years operating versus 7 years for market leaders |
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Mobile-first modern design optimized specifically for phone usage |
Limited state availability compared to FanDuel/BetMGM |
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Backed by major retailer with strong financial stability and long-term commitment |
No desktop website creates mobile-only limitation for some users |
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May accept bettors that other sites have limited (different risk approach) |
Smaller market share means less betting liquidity and less proven reliability |
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Customer service still building expertise and training staff |
Unique FanCash rewards system creates value for sports fans who regularly buy team merchandise
Mobile-first modern design optimized specifically for phone usage
Backed by major retailer with strong financial stability and long-term commitment
May accept bettors that other sites have limited (different risk approach)
Only 2+ years operating versus 7 years for market leaders
Limited state availability compared to FanDuel/BetMGM
No desktop website creates mobile-only limitation for some users
Smaller market share means less betting liquidity and less proven reliability
Customer service still building expertise and training staff
Best for: Sports fans who regularly buy merchandise and want rewards, mobile-only bettors, users whose accounts were closed elsewhere, or those seeking alternatives to major operators.
The 2024-2026 Reality Check
No major new licensed sportsbooks launched in 2025 or 2026. The industry has entered a consolidation phase where existing operators expand to new states rather than new brands emerging. This makes theScore Bet and Fanatics even more notable as the newest additions to the US market.
What this means for you: if you’re seeking alternatives to FanDuel and DraftKings, your options are limited to theScore Bet, Fanatics, or waiting for state launches where all operators are “new” to that market.
Missouri Launch, December 1, 2025
Established Brands Launching in Missouri
Important context: while Missouri calls this their “sports betting launch,” most operators going live December 1st have been operating in other US states since 2018. These aren’t newly created companies. They’re established brands entering a new market.
What this means for Missouri bettors:
- You CAN claim welcome bonuses (you’ve never used them in Missouri)
- You GET proven, reliable platforms (7+ years operating elsewhere)
- You DON’T get experimental “new” features or different platforms
- You DON’T get different odds/markets than other states
Bottom line: you’re not getting “new experimental platforms.” You’re getting access to proven sportsbooks that have processed billions in bets elsewhere. This is actually better for reliability and trust, even if less exciting than truly new technology.
FanDuel
21+ in OH. $5 min deposit req. Bonus Bets non-withdrawable, expire 7 days after receipt. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Operating since 2018 with 7 years of proven reliability, the site commands 43% of all US sports betting market share. Currently available in 23 states, it launched in Missouri December 1, 2025 through partnership with St. Louis City SC.
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43% US market share, the #1 sportsbook in America
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4.9/5 stars from over 1 million reviews
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24-48 hours withdrawal speed proven across millions of transactions
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7 years of proven operating history and established reliability
The casino has been the fastest withdrawing sportsbook in the industry with 24-48 hours verified through millions of transactions over 7 years. It offers the most competitive odds tested at 2-3% better than average, refined over 7 years of continuous data.
The site provides the easiest interface for beginners, which is why it earned a 4.9/5 rating from 1M+ reviews. It also has 24/7 customer service with 7 years of training and experience rather than learning on the job. The partnership with St. Louis City SC provides a local Missouri connection.
While the site isn’t a “new” platform, it IS new to Missouri. This means you can claim the full welcome bonus even though it’s an established brand elsewhere. You get the best of both worlds: proven, battle-tested platform with the ability to claim bonuses as a new Missouri user.
BetMGM
21+ in OH. $10 min bet req. Bonus Bets non-withdrawable, expire 7 days after receipt. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Operating since 2018 with 7 years of proven reliability, the site is backed by MGM Resorts International and Entain. Available in 22 states, it launched in Missouri December 1, 2025 through partnerships with Century Casino locations.
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MGM Rewards: earn hotel and dining credits on every bet placed
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4.7/5 stars from over 500,000 reviews
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450+ betting markets per major game
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7 years of proven operating history and established reliability
The casino offers MGM Rewards integration, letting you earn credits on every bet and redeem for hotels, dining, and entertainment at MGM properties. It provides 450+ betting markets per major game with exceptional depth for serious bettors.
The site delivers consistently competitive odds across all major sports at 2-4% better on certain markets. The partnership with MGM Resorts (casino industry leader since 1987) brings decades of gaming expertise. Entain technology powers the UK’s leading sportsbooks with a proven global track record.
The site isn’t a new company, but it’s new to Missouri. You get the benefit of MGM Resorts’ decades of casino experience applied to sports betting, plus the ability to earn MGM Rewards on every bet you place.
Other Confirmed Missouri Operators (All Established)
Additional operators confirmed for Missouri:
- DraftKings (since 2018) – 2nd largest operator with 25-30% market share, received direct untethered license in August 2025
- Caesars (since 2019) – Caesars Rewards integration, partnership with Harrah’s casinos in multiple Missouri locations
- bet365 (US since 2019) – European operator with global presence since 2000, partnership with St. Louis Cardinals includes in-stadium betting
- theScore Bet (since 2023) – 1 of only 2 genuinely “new” brands, launched November 2023
- Fanatics (since 2023) – 1 of only 2 genuinely “new” brands, launched August 2023, partnership with Boyd Gaming
- Circa Sports – Las Vegas sportsbook expanding to Missouri, received direct license August 2025
- Underdog Sports – DFS operator entering traditional betting market
- Plus 5-7 additional operators expected to launch
Missouri launch timeline:
- Amendment 2 passed November 5, 2024 (50.7% approval)
- Launch date December 1, 2025
- Timing mid-NFL season (Week 13), NBA regular season in full swing
Missouri Bonus Opportunity
Missouri residents can claim welcome bonuses from multiple operators. This is a 1-time opportunity as each operator launches in your state. You can legally have accounts at all licensed operators and claim each welcome bonus once.
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Sign up for multiple sportsbooks on December 1 to claim multiple welcome bonuses
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Start with FanDuel and BetMGM (proven reliability + our exclusive deals)
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Then add DraftKings, Caesars, and bet365 for variety
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You can legally have accounts at all licensed operators in Missouri
First-Time Bettor Strategy
We recommend starting with FanDuel. It has the easiest interface (4.9/5 stars for a reason), proven customer service, and the fastest withdrawals verified over 7 years. Don’t experiment with unproven platforms when learning the basics of sports betting.
Master 1 platform before exploring others. Learn the basics, understand odds, and practice bankroll management before branching out.
Closed Account Strategy
Step 1. Try genuinely new brands first
- theScore Bet (launched 2023) – Different company than FanDuel/DraftKings (Penn Entertainment), may have different risk tolerance
- Fanatics (launched 2023) – Retail company entering sports betting, may accept sharp bettors initially
Step 2. Try established sites you haven't used
- BetMGM – Different parent company (MGM Resorts + Entain vs Flutter Entertainment)
- bet365 – European operator with different risk management approach
- Caesars – Historic Las Vegas brand, may treat winning players differently
Step 3. Wait for state launches
Missouri and other new markets mean all operators are accepting new signups and may have different limits initially.
Reality Check
All licensed US sportsbooks share information through state gaming commissions. If you’re flagged as a “sharp” bettor, this may follow you across operators. Some can open accounts but face immediate betting limits – this is legal and standard practice.
Missouri Resident December 1st Strategy
We recommend signing up for all operators. Multiple welcome bonuses represent a 1-time opportunity when operators launch in your state.
Priority order:
- FanDuel – best reliability, 43% market share, fastest withdrawals
- BetMGM – MGM Rewards, best odds depth
- DraftKings – 2nd largest operator, great live betting
- Caesars – Caesars Rewards integration
- bet365 – unique European odds approach
- theScore Bet – genuinely new brand (2023)
- Fanatics – FanCash rewards for merchandise
Serious Bettor Multi-Site Strategy
We recommend having accounts at FanDuel, BetMGM, AND DraftKings minimum. Each scored above 4.5/5 in our hands-on sportsbook evaluations covering odds, banking, and mobile experience. Compare odds before every bet, as 2-3% differences add up significantly over time.
- Shop lines across multiple sites before placing any bet
- Bet where odds are best for that specific game/market
- Keep bankroll separate at each site for proper management
- Use our odds comparison calculator
For example, if FanDuel has Chiefs -3 at -110 and BetMGM has -108, always bet at BetMGM. Small differences compound over hundreds of bets into thousands of dollars in extra profit. Professional and serious bettors always have multiple accounts to line shop.
Why 7 Years Proven Beats “New”
Why Established Sportsbooks Often Beat “New” Sites
Since only 2 genuinely new brands have launched in 2+ years (theScore Bet and Fanatics), let’s be honest about what “new” really means in 2026. Most “new” opportunities are established brands entering new states, not newly created companies.
This is actually good for bettors. Here’s why FanDuel and BetMGM, despite being 7 years old, are often better choices than even genuinely new brands. The data tells the story.
FanDuel, 7 Years of Proven Reliability
21+ in OH. $5 min deposit req. Bonus Bets non-withdrawable, expire 7 days after receipt. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Why 7 years matters:
- 43% of all US sports betting handle goes through the site (absolute market dominance)
- Over 1 million App Store reviews at 4.9 stars (most trusted platform)
- Processed billions in withdrawals without major incidents or issues
- Customer service tested and refined by millions of daily users
- Odds algorithms refined over 7 years of continuous betting data
What you actually get versus new sites:
- Withdrawal speed 24-48 hours PROVEN through millions of transactions (new sites = unknown reliability)
- Odds quality 2-3% better than average, proven over millions of bets across all major sports
- App stability 4.9 stars from 1M+ reviews versus 4.1-4.2 for new sites with under 100K reviews
- Customer service 24/7 support that actually responds with 7 years of training
- Market depth 450+ ways to bet major games, refined and optimized over years
The honest comparison: “New” sounds exciting, but when your money is involved, do you want a platform that’s processed 7 years of withdrawals, or a platform still figuring out payout processes? The answer is obvious for most bettors.
BetMGM, Battle-Tested Platform
21+ in OH. $10 min bet req. Bonus Bets non-withdrawable, expire 7 days after receipt. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Why experience matters:
- Partnership with MGM Resorts (casino industry leader since 1987) brings decades of gaming expertise
- Entain technology powers the UK’s leading sportsbooks with proven track record
- 7 years of US betting data creates significantly better odds algorithms
- Withdrawal speed proven reliable across 22 different state regulatory environments
- MGM Rewards integration tested and refined across millions of user accounts
What you actually get versus new sites:
- MGM Rewards Earn credits on every bet, redeem for hotels/dining/entertainment (7 years of established partnerships)
- Odds depth Consistently 2-4% better on certain markets proven via independent comparison
- Platform stability 4.7/5 stars from 500K+ reviews versus new sites with minimal user testing
- Live betting Actually works during biggest games, proven under massive traffic
- Customer support 24/7 service with 7 years of sports betting-specific expertise
The honest verdict: the site isn’t exciting because it’s “new.” It’s valuable because it’s PROVEN. When you have a withdrawal issue or question, you want customer service that’s handled millions of situations, not learning on the job.
New Brands (2023) vs Established Leaders (2018)
| Factor | New Brands (2023) theScore Bet, Fanatics | Established (2018) FanDuel, BetMGM |
|---|---|---|
|
Operating History |
1-2 years (unproven long-term) |
7+ years proven reliability |
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App Ratings |
4.1-4.2 stars, under 100K reviews |
4.7-4.9 stars, 500K-1M+ reviews |
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User Base Size |
Building (under 5% market share) |
Millions established (43% FanDuel alone) |
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Withdrawal Speed |
Unproven at scale, reports vary |
24-48 hours verified millions of times |
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Odds Quality |
Still optimizing algorithms |
Refined over 7 years, 2-3% better avg |
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Customer Service |
Building support teams |
24/7 established, 7 years training |
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State Availability |
17 states (theScore Bet) |
22-23 states nationwide |
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Platform Stability |
Occasional bugs reported under load |
Battle-tested during biggest games |
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Market Depth |
Major sports covered, growing |
450+ markets per major game |
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Unique Features |
theScore content, FanCash rewards |
MGM Rewards, loyalty programs |
Data-Driven Bottom Line
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For most bettors: FanDuel and BetMGM offer objectively superior experiences across almost every measurable metric
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Choose new brands if: your account was closed at major sites, you want unique features, or you’ve already used all established operators
“New” Doesn’t Always Mean Better
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FanDuel and BetMGM have 7+ years of proven reliability (not just marketing claims)
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Faster withdrawals (24-48 hours verified millions of times), better odds (2-3% better on average)
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Similarly, Irish betting sites and other European markets have decades of experience US operators have drawn from
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Unless your account was closed at these sites, they’re objectively better choices than newer platforms
Avoid Offshore “New” Sites
Many offshore betting sites advertise as “new” or “alternative” options to attract US customers, but they operate WITHOUT US licenses and offer zero legal protections. You have absolutely no recourse if they refuse to pay winnings or close your account without explanation.
Offshore sites to avoid (not legally licensed in any US state): Bovada (offshore since 1990s), BetOnline (offshore operation), MyBookie (withdrawal complaints), BetUS (no state licensing), Discasino (2024 launch, offshore/crypto), and BetWhale (offshore operator). None of these are regulated by any US gaming commission.
Why you must avoid offshore sites:
- No legal recourse if they refuse to pay your winnings
- Not regulated by any US gaming commission
- Frequent withdrawal issues reported for winners
- No responsible gambling protections required by law
- Your winnings could be seized without explanation
- Using them may violate state law where you live
- No data protection for your personal/financial information
Step 1. Check your state gaming commission website
Look for the official list of licensed operators on your state’s gaming commission site.
Step 2. Look for a license number
A license number should be displayed on the sportsbook website, usually in the footer or legal page.
Step 3. Verify geolocation requirement
Legal sites must confirm you’re physically in the state to place bets. If a site doesn’t check your location, it’s a red flag.
Step 4. Stick with verified operators if uncertain
FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, bet365, theScore Bet, and Fanatics are all fully licensed in their operating states.
Missouri Gaming Commission: www.mgc.dps.mo.gov (official source for legal operators after Dec 1, 2025)
Final Verdict on New Betting Sites vs Established Leaders
The honest reality about “new betting sites” in 2026: only 2 genuinely new licensed brands exist (theScore Bet launched 2023, Fanatics launched 2023). No major new operators launched in 2024-2026, making this an industry consolidation period rather than expansion.
However, Missouri’s December 1, 2025 launch represents last year’s biggest “new” betting opportunity, even though the operators are established brands that have operated elsewhere since 2018. For Missouri residents, all major sportsbooks will be new, allowing you to claim multiple welcome bonuses.
For most bettors, especially beginners, FanDuel and BetMGM offer superior experiences compared to newer platforms: proven reliability, better odds, faster withdrawals (24-48 hours verified), and industry-leading customer service backed by 7+ years of data. If you’ve never used them, start there.
Choose genuinely new brands (theScore Bet, Fanatics) if:
- Your account was closed at major sites
- You want unique features (theScore content, FanCash rewards)
- You’ve exhausted all established operators’ bonuses
Remember: gambling involves risk. Only bet what you can afford to lose.
Gamble Responsibly
Whether you’re trying a genuinely new sportsbook (theScore Bet, Fanatics) or an established operator launching in Missouri, responsible gambling is essential. Set deposit limits before you start – all licensed sites offer this feature. Never chase losses on any platform. Use self-exclusion tools if needed, required by all US-licensed operators.
Betting should be entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. Only bet what you can afford to lose and take breaks regularly.
National Council on Problem Gambling: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7 Confidential Helpline). Text “GAMBLER” to 53342.
www.ncpgambling.org – Find support groups, treatment options, and self-assessment tools.
You must be 21+ to bet in most states (18+ in some states). Check your state’s legal gambling age before signing up.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Betting Sites
What are the newest betting sites launched in 2026
No new major licensed sportsbooks launched in 2025 or 2026. The most recent new brands were theScore Bet (November 2023) and Fanatics Sportsbook (August 2023), almost 2 years ago.
The biggest “new” betting opportunity in 2024-2026 was Missouri’s December 1, 2025 launch, where up to 14 operators went live simultaneously including FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, and bet365. While these aren’t newly created companies (most have operated in other states since 2018), they’re new to Missouri residents. For Missouri bettors, December 1 represents access to multiple “new” sportsbooks even though they’re established platforms elsewhere.
When is FanDuel launching in Missouri
FanDuel launched in Missouri on December 1, 2025, along with BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, bet365, theScore Bet, Fanatics, and several other operators. FanDuel secured market access through a partnership with St. Louis City SC. Missouri residents aged 21+ can sign up starting December 1st.
While FanDuel isn’t a “new” company (it’s been operating nationwide since 2018 with 43% US market share), it’s new to Missouri. The site has 7 years of verified reliability, 4.9-star app ratings from over 1 million reviews, and the fastest withdrawal speeds in the industry (24-48 hours proven).
Are FanDuel and BetMGM considered new betting sites
No, both launched in 2018 and have operated for 7+ years nationwide. However, they’re new to Missouri since December 1, 2025, meaning Missouri residents can claim new user bonuses even though these are established brands elsewhere.
Why “not new” is actually good: 7 years of proven withdrawal reliability (24-48 hours verified), 7 years of odds data creating better pricing algorithms, 1 million+ app reviews providing verified quality (4.9 stars FanDuel, 4.7 stars BetMGM), established customer service teams, and billions in bets processed without major issues. You get the best of both worlds: proven, battle-tested platforms with the ability to claim welcome bonuses because you’ve never used them in Missouri.
References and Sources
- Missouri Gaming Commission. “Sports Wagering License Applications and Launch Timeline.” mgc.dps.mo.gov
- American Gaming Association. “State-by-State Sports Betting Market Data.”
- Nielsen Company. “Sports Betting App Usage and Market Share Data.”
- Apple App Store and Google Play Store. “Verified User Reviews and Ratings for Sports Betting Applications.”
- Penn National Gaming / Penn Entertainment (2023). “theScore Bet Launch Press Release.”
- Fanatics Inc. (2023). “Fanatics Sportsbook Launch and PointsBet Acquisition Announcement.”
- MGM Resorts International. “BetMGM Market Expansion and Partnership Announcements.”
- Flutter Entertainment. “FanDuel Market Performance and State Expansion Reports.”
- State Gaming Commission Websites. Official lists of licensed operators across 20+ states.
- National Council on Problem Gambling. “Responsible Gambling Resources and State Regulations.”
