PokerStars

The History of PokerStars: From Startup to Global Leader

PokerStars was founded by Isai and Mark Scheinberg under Rational Enterprises. Initially, it operated as a play-money poker platform but introduced real-money games in December 2001. Originally based in Costa Rica, the company relocated to the Isle of Man to benefit from a more stable regulatory framework.

A defining moment in PokerStars’ history came in 2003 when amateur player Chris Moneymaker won the World Series of Poker Main Event after qualifying through a $39 satellite tournament on the platform. His $2.5 million victory triggered the “poker boom,” bringing millions of new players into the online poker world and solidifying PokerStars as the go-to platform.

For years, PokerStars remained privately owned until 2014, when it was sold to Canadian firm Amaya Inc. (now The Stars Group) for $4.9 billion. In 2020, The Stars Group merged with Flutter Entertainment, forming one of the largest global gambling corporations.

What PokerStars Offers

PokerStars provides a wide range of poker formats catering to all types of players. The platform offers:

• Texas Hold’em, Omaha, HORSE, Razz, and Badugi
• Spin & Go tournaments, where players can win up to $1 million in a few minutes
• Innovative poker formats like Tempest and Grand Tour

In addition to poker, PokerStars has an extensive online casino section, offering more than 600 slot games and a variety of table games such as blackjack, baccarat and roulette. A live casino is available for real dealer games enthusiasts. The platform also provides sports betting, allowing betting on the results of various sports.

PokerStars is known for its industry-leading poker software, offering a seamless user experience on both desktop and mobile devices (iOS and Android). The platform provides advanced features, smooth gameplay, and extensive customization options to enhance user engagement.

In 2018, PokerStars launched PokerStars VR, a virtual reality poker experience developed in partnership with Lucky VR, giving players an immersive 3D poker environment.

PokerStars Live Events

PokerStars is not only a leader in online poker but also a major player in live poker tournaments. The company sponsors and organizes some of the most prestigious events worldwide, including:

• European Poker Tour (EPT)
• Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT)
• PokerStars Caribbean Adventure (PCA)
• PokerStars Players No Limit Hold’em Championship (PSPC), featuring a $25,000 buy-in and a $1 million prize for the champion

Where PokerStars Operates

PokerStars holds multiple gambling licenses and operates in several regulated markets across the globe.

PokerStars in Europe

PokerStars is legally available in key European markets, including:

• Malta
• United Kingdom
• France
• Spain
• Italy
• Denmark
• Belgium
• Estonia

PokerStars in the United States

After exiting the U.S. market in 2011 due to regulatory changes, PokerStars made a successful return by securing licenses in:

• New Jersey (2016)
• Pennsylvania (2019)
• Michigan (2021)

PokerStars in Latin America

PokerStars operates in LATAM market, but regulatory challenges remain. In February 2024, the platform withdrew from Peru due to unfavorable changes in gambling laws.

PokerStars in Asia and Australia

PokerStars does not operate in China or India due to regulatory restrictions. The company was previously active in Australia but exited the market following legislative changes.

The Launch of PokerStars Open in 2025

In 2025, PokerStars will introduce PokerStars Open, a new tournament series that will replace UKIPT and Eureka. The new series will feature six stops across Europe, including:

• Campione, Italy
• Namur, Belgium
• Malaga, Spain
• Manchester, UK
• Cannes, France

Each event will offer a guaranteed €1/£1 million prize pool.