Circa Sports Royals Partnership Could Boost Handle Following Slow Start

Written by :

Dan Shapiro

Published on :

2 February, 2026

Missouri's first full month of offering sports betting proved lukewarm for Circa Sports, which reported $1.4 million in handle during the month of December. It launched the first day of the month.

Circa Sports is one of only two operators in Missouri to receive a direct (untethered) sports betting license.

Last week, Circa announced a partnership arrangement with the Kansas City Royals, which should boost their brand awareness in the Show Me State. With this deal, Circa becomes the official betting partner of the Royals. The partnership will officially debut at Royals Rally Casino Night at Kauffman Stadium, presented by Circa Sports, on January 30.

“Since launching Circa Sports in Missouri last December, we’ve grown to appreciate the local sports community – and the Kansas City Royals are at the heart of it,” said Derek Stevens, CEO of Circa Sports. “This partnership is about creating premium experiences around the game – from the ballpark to the sportsbook – and giving Royals fans access, energy and a level of engagement that feels authentic to how they follow baseball.”

Circa's stronghold is Vegas where they run what is arguably the most beloved sportsbook in town. For those heading to Vegas who already registered their Circa Sports account, you must register and activate your Circa Sports account in person at a retail sportsbook location. This process is somewhat unique to Nevada as most states, Missouri included, allow for registration online and remotely. The good news is that you can register at the Circa Resort & Casino with valid ID.

FanDuel and DraftKings managed to quickly carve out a large chunk of the Missouri market share to kick off the first month of legalized sports gambling.

FanDuel took in $212.5 million while DraftKings came close with $195.1 in handle.

The next closest results were half of that with bet365 reporting $57.7 million, BetMGM $28.1 million and Fanatics $22.6 million.

Caesars reported $14.5 million while theScore took in $6.3 million.

Missouri regulators, operators and gamblers alike came into the NFL Playoffs disappointed. For the first time in years, the Chiefs failed to make the cut, ending the season with a losing record.