Ladbrokes is to be the first operator to offer players in Italy access to a wide range of poker tournament games.
Friday 26th March 2010
Isle Of Man-based online gambling software provider Microgaming has announced the launch of a new poker network for the Italian market after gaining approval from the AAMS regulator and successfully completing a thorough beta testing period.
Microgaming stated that the new network is now fully live and offers players in Italy access to its wide range of poker tournament games.
“The launch of Microgaming’s Italian poker network is another example of Microgaming bringing the highest global standards to local markets,” said Roger Raatgever, Chief Executive Officer for Microgaming.
“We have worked tirelessly to ensure that the new poker network is fit for purpose to meet the needs of the Italian player base as well as the Italian regulatory standards.
“The initial offering of poker tournament games to the network’s player community represents a solid foundation upon which to build and Microgaming is currently working within regulatory parameters to develop the poker games portfolio further.”
Microgaming revealed that it had worked in close collaboration with local parties to ensure that its back-office systems and support services were appropriately customised to cater for the Italian market.
“With the Italian market set to become increasingly open and competitive in the months to come, we are confident that we have the right resources and alliances to support our operators and help them to succeed,” said Raatgever.
“Italy is an important region for the future of gaming in Europe as it has set the standard for other countries wishing to introduce gaming regulations. It is a crucial gateway for further European Union expansion. We remain committed to the Italian market and are keen to play our part in helping our licensees take full advantage of the opportunities that lie therein and beyond.”
Ladbrokes is set to be the first operator to join the new network while negotiations are also underway with a number of other operators that, Microgaming stated, are keen to partner with it as a means of entering or solidifying their position in the rapidly growing Italian market.
“Microgaming has a proven track record in poker as it hosts the most established poker network,” said Mattia Nicelli, Chief Executive Officer for Ladbrokes Italia.
“Our decision to join its Italian network is a strategic move that we believe will be of great benefit to our players. Drawing on its wealth of global and local expertise, together with its technological prowess, Microgaming has adapted its services in a way that caters to our specific needs as we compete in the competitive Italian market.
“We are confident that this partnership will prove mutually beneficial and that Microgaming’s new venture targeting the Italian market will emulate the success it has experienced around the world.”
