Online poker operator PokerStars is working with online regulators in Ontario, Canada to launch the province’s regulated iGaming market on April 4.
That launch of iGaming Ontario (iGO) will include online poker, casino and sports betting. iGO is under the umbrella of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Private operators must obtain licenses through the agency.
A spokesman for PokerStars said in a statement: “Canada is very close to our hearts. It’s our home ground and where PokerStars was born over 20 years ago.” The spokesman added, “It will be a historical moment for us to be licensed in our home province.”
The statement continued, “We are working with the AGCO and iGO on processes related to the new provincial regulatory model, and are focused on ensuring that we will continue to have an attractive offering for our community,” adding, “We will update you when we have more interesting details to share.”
PokerStars is one of the most licensed and regulated online poker operators in the world, with licenses in 20 nations.
Ontario is expected to be a closed market at first. That could change if Canada’s provinces sign an agreement to allow operators to pool players across provincial lines. This is something that has been considered, said iGO recently.
