Michigan Likely Next For WSOP.com, Which Announces July 12 Pennsylvania Launch
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Bracelets may soon find their place on The Mitten’s wrist as World Series of Poker Michigan prepares to launch in Pennsylvania this month, unfortunately lacking interstate online poker capabilities.
Michigan could potentially be the next state, regardless of whether players can compete across state lines.
WSOP’s announcement of a MI launch, making them the third online poker operator in Michigan, appears imminent.
This week, WSOP made an announcement stating that it will begin operating in Pennsylvania starting from July 12. By doing so, WSOP will be joining BetMGM Poker Michigan and PokerStars MI as operators in this region.
WSOP made a promise for the PA launch, assuring the provision of “the most exceptional sign-up offer, the highest guarantees, and an upgraded WSOP.com poker client.”
WSOP has indicated summer launch in MI
In an earnings call held in April, 888 Holdings CEO Itai Pazner announced that the launch of WSOP was imminent in two states, specifically Pennsylvania and Michigan.
Pazner stated that they have plans to launch within the first half of this year, indicating that it will likely happen within the next few months.
People who closely monitor the industry, especially in Michigan, are eager to wager that the estimates will be even higher.
The WSOP has already sailed through the first half of 2021 without taking a break, but there is still a possibility of a summer commencement.
Pazner announced that the brand, which has collaborated with 888 Poker, is set to penetrate the market by forming alliances with William Hill and Caesars.
Caesars, William Hill deal proves crucial for MI poker
The acquisition of William Hill by The Caesars, which was concluded earlier this year, has emerged as a significant milestone for online poker in Michigan.
The reason is that while Caesars initially did not participate in Michigan’s online gambling scene, William Hill had a companion.
For access here, the UK outfit collaborated with the Grand Traverse Bay Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, who operate two casinos in the Traverse City area.
Caesars’ acquisition of William Hill provided the necessary connection for its WSOP brand to launch within state borders.
MGCB reviewing interstate poker compacts
However, what about beyond the boundaries of the state?
The Michigan Gaming Control Board is currently reviewing interstate poker agreements as the World Series of Poker prepares for its launch in Michigan.
The Michigan law allows the MGCB to engage in agreements, known as compacts, with other states to facilitate poker play across state borders.
On the other hand, the federal level is where matters become sensitive.
While the Wire Act saga has currently concluded, compacts may still face regulatory uncertainties.
The details of the compact could also be under review by the MGCB. The board has consistently stated that the compacting process is anticipated to occur “later this year.”
Michigan poker players will have the delightful opportunity to choose from three different platforms for cross-state gaming once these exciting developments become a reality.
