Betfair has announced that it will cease its Canadian operations on January 14th.
The company did not offer any explanation for the move, but analysts feel Betfair’s pending merger with Paddy power—which exited Canada I n 2011—is part of the reason.
Canada was seen by Paddy Power as a “grey market” and the country and several provinces continue to talk about black-listing offshore online gambling sites. Betfair itself has not actively marketed its site in the country in several years.
Betfair recently sent out an email to customers informing them that residents of Canada would no longer be allowed to place bets, and that gaming services would also be blocked. Customers were told that any outstanding bets would be cancelled, and that they should withdraw any remaining cash or winnings by January 14th, according to SBC News.
In another matter, Betfair has launched a number of games through Inspired Virtual Sports, both online and on mobile devices.
Betfair has launched seven of Inspired’s Virtual Sports: Rush Football, Rush Horses, Rush Greyhounds, Rush Motor Racing, Rush Speedway, Rush Cycling and Rush Tennis
Steve Rogers, CCO Digital Games, Inspired said: “Virtual Sports have become a proven and increasingly popular category of sportsbetting, so we are thrilled that Betfair have now got in on the action too. Players love the immediacy and excitement of betting on our Virtual Sports – which are the most lifelike and entertaining in the market. They are already going down a storm with Betfair players!”
