Circa Sports is continuing to expand its reach in Missouri with a new partnership.
On Monday, the Las Vegas-based gaming company announced a deal with the Kansas City Royals, becoming an official sports betting partner of the MLB franchise. As part of the pact, Circa will have a marketing presence at Kauffman Stadium, the home ballpark of the Royals since 1973. Circa and the Royals will also collaborate to deliver activations to baseball fans in Missouri and offer VIP players unique experiences with the team.
“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 Circa CEO Derek Stevens. “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.”
The Royals and Circa are kicking off their new partnership on Jan. 30 at Royals Rally Casino Night. Attendees at the event will have the opportunity to win a prize package from Circa.
The gaming giant plans to award 10 prize packages that include a two-night stay at its Las Vegas resort and casino. The prize package also provides winners with amenities, including access to a poolside daybed and unlimited food and drinks at the world’s largest sportsbook operated by Circa at the resort.
“We all know the passion Royals fans have for their team, and this partnership with Circa Sports offers more ways for them to connect with the game they love,” said Royals President of Business Operations Cullen Maxey. “From special events at Kauffman Stadium to unique experiences beyond the ballpark, we’re excited to work with Circa to bring new ways for fans to connect with the Royals.”
Royals’ ties to online gaming brands
In addition to Circa, the Royals secured a market access deal in Missouri with Underdog for sports wagering before Underdog changed its strategy by pulling its license application for an online sports betting license in Missouri ahead of the state’s launch of wagering in December. Underdog withdrew its application to focus on delivering event contracts.
The partnership between the Royals and Underdog also included marketing campaigns.
Circa’s partnership with the St. Louis Blues
Meanwhile, Circa turned heads in Missouri last year after being awarded an untethered sports betting license by the Missouri Gaming Commission. Circa beat out FanDuel for the untethered license, with DraftKings being the other recipient of the state’s two untethered licenses.
An untethered license in Missouri does not require Circa to secure a market access and revenue-share agreement with a land-based casino or pro sports team in Missouri.
Circa would have secured a market access deal with the St. Louis Blues if it had not been awarded an untethered license. The company continues to work with the NHL franchise, securing a partnership with the team last week. As part of the deal, Circa is offering Blues fans the opportunity to win a trip to Las Vegas during each home game this season.
