U.S.-based gaming operator Hard Rock Entertainment may challenge a decision by the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC) that removed it from the competition for an Athens casino license. The move last week left one bidder in line to win the right to build an integrated resort (IR) at the abandoned Hellenikon International Airport: another U.S. company, Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment.
According to the Greek National Herald, Hard Rock’s offer “was rejected for technical reasons, which could bring a lengthy court challenge,” though the New Democracy government says construction will begin anyway. The project is favorite of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said would be a landmark for him.
A source told Reuters that Hard Rock’s proposal failed to meet the tender’s criteria for financing of the project and required construction experience. Bidders have the right to appeal the decision within 10 days.
At stake is a 30-year gaming license and an IR in a planned €8-billion (US$8.92 billion) development. The winner of the tender will build a casino on a site of at least 1.2 hectares (2.96 acres), with a minimum of 120 gaming tables and 1,200 slot machines. There will also be a luxury hotel, entertainment venues, a conference center, marina, sport center and park.
Hard Rock advisor Michael Karloutsos told the Herald, “It is absolutely laughable to think that Hard Rock does not have the financial capacity and construction capability to complete the project at Hellenikon. If this report is true, I would suggest the committee and commission must be confused, because it is clear they are referring to our competition.”
Karloutsos said the company won’t accept the decision. “Hard Rock has said repeatedly that it will take this process ‘to the end,’” he said, forcing legal action that could further delay the long-stalled project.
The site has been empty for 19 years.
